Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set embark on a three-day official visit to the Maldives on Monday. The Indian Defence Minister’s itinerary includes meetings with President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih, Defence Minister Maria Ahmed Didi, and Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid during his visit.
Strengthening defence and strategic ties between the two countries will be the primary focus of the visit, with the replacement of a coast guard vessel donated by the Indian government with a new one serving as a key highlight. The vessel is currently in the Maldives. The visit will also involve India presenting the Maldives with a second landing craft assault (LCA) and 24 utility vehicles, further strengthening the ties between the two nations, in addition to the Huravi, the first vessel donated during Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s presidency.
The Indian government donated an upgraded coast guard vessel to replace Huravi during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s visit to India in August last year.
India and the Maldives have a strong defence and strategic partnership, with India offering substantial support to the Maldives in the areas of maritime security, counter-terrorism, and disaster management. This visit is anticipated to further bolster these ties and foster greater collaboration between the two nations.