Rajnath Singh, the Indian defence minister, will visit the Maldives from May 1 to 3, and while there, he will present the country with a swift patrol ship and a landing craft. The action demonstrates India’s dedication to helping allies and friendly nations in the area expand their capacities, and it is anticipated that it would improve bilateral ties between the two nations.
Singh’s trip to the Maldives is a significant step towards forging close ties of goodwill between the two nations. To address the full scope of defence cooperation between the two countries, he will meet with Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the president of the Maldives, as well as Abdulla Shahid and Mariya Didi, the foreign and defence ministries.
The Maldives is one of India’s most significant maritime neighbours, and bilateral ties between the two nations have generally improved recently, particularly in the areas of security and military. Another major gainer from India’s Neighbourhood First policy is The Maldives.
The Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP), which is regarded as the largest infrastructure project in the island nation, was introduced last year by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Solih of the Maldives. The project consists of a 6.74-km-long bridge and causeway link that will unite the neighbouring islands of Villingli, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi with Male, the capital of the Maldives.
Another sign of India’s commitment to the Maldives is Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane’s recent trip there. He spoke with his Maldivian counterpart, Major General Abdulla Shamaal, during his tour.
The Maldives National Defence Forces’ defence capabilities are anticipated to be bolstered by India’s donation of a quick patrol vessel and a landing craft. Additionally, it will strengthen India’s position as a significant partner in the area and aid India in fending off China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean region.