Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef met with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles on Monday and discussed strengthening defence cooperation and expanding collaboration in tourism, the President’s Office said.
The meeting, held at the President’s Office in Malé, is part of Australia’s efforts to deepen engagement with Indian Ocean nations amid growing regional security concerns.
According to the statement, the two sides “discussed strategies to strengthen defence cooperation and expand collaboration in tourism.” They also “highlighted their shared commitment to environmental protection and addressing the challenges posed by climate change.”
The President’s Office said both leaders “reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening diplomatic ties, enhancing bilateral cooperation, and advancing strategic collaboration on shared priorities.”
Australia has increased outreach to smaller Indian Ocean states as part of its broader Indo-Pacific strategy, which prioritises maritime security cooperation and climate resilience.