India-Maldives Relations Strengthen as Defence Cooperation Takes Centre Stage

India-Maldives Relation: India said that it is willing to assist the Maldives in upgrading its defense capabilities. This is an important step forward in healing the ties that soured earlier this year. The decision was made during broad-ranging talks between India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his Maldivian counterpart, Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon, who is on a three-day visit to New Delhi.

The discussions, which focused on maritime security cooperation, underlined the shared vision of both nations for a robust economic and maritime security partnership. The visit follows the state visit of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu to India in October 2024, which set a new tone for bilateral relations.

While making his address, Rajnath Singh pointed out the Maldives assumes a crucial role in the Neighbourhood First Policy under India. “The Maldives occupies a special place under our Neighbourhood First Policy, aimed at ensuring stability and prosperity in the Indian Ocean region,” Singh said. He restated that India remains committed to support the Maldives to increase its defense preparedness through provision of defence platforms and other capabilities which will suit the priorities of this island nation.

The talks also reviewed various aspects of bilateral defense and security cooperation. Both sides reiterated their firm commitment to working closely toward realizing the joint vision outlined in the Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, a document released during President Muizzu’s state visit.

Almost eight months after New Delhi withdrew its military personnel from the Maldives, the Maldivian defence minister visited New Delhi. The decision to withdraw its military personnel came after President Muizzu publicly demanded it due to his pro-China stance. The episode is a low point in India-Maldives relations, but there are indications of attempts to regain trust and cooperation.

“I remember our brief meeting with you during the state visit of President Muizzu to India. His visit has provided a new orientation to our bilateral relationship, and the Joint Vision Document acts as a guiding principle for our two countries,” Singh noted.

The move by India supports its SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative, which focuses on mutual security and economic prosperity in the Indian Ocean region. The defence ministry maintained that the partnership will help ensure maritime security and promote regional stability.

Maumoon’s visit is seen as a new push for the enhancement of bilateral relations, as both countries reaffirm their commitment to dealing with the common challenges the region faces. With India being ready to strengthen the Maldives’ defense capabilities, the partnership looks ready to usher in a new chapter of collaboration and mutual growth.

As the two nations move forward, their renewed engagement will highlight strategic importance in their relationship to the stability of the Indian Ocean. Focusing on maritime security and defence cooperation, India and the Maldives will work closely towards peace, prosperity, and shared growth in the region.