Strengthening an already close defence relationship, the Commanding Officer of Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kochi made a courtesy call on senior officials of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) in Malé on Monday. The visit is part of a broader initiative to boost bilateral security cooperation between the two Indian Ocean neighbours.
During the visit, the Indian naval official met with top MNDF leadership, including Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force; Brigadier General Ahmed Ghiyas, Vice Chief of Defence Force; and Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem, Commandant of the Coast Guard. The Indian High Commission in Maldives shared the event on social media, emphasizing its importance in enhancing the enduring defence relationship between the two nations.
Earlier that day, INS Kochi arrived in Malé, accompanying the Maldives Coast Guard Ship (CGS) Huravee back home after a successful refit in India. This act demonstrates the strong operational cooperation and mutual support that define India-Maldives defence ties, particularly in the areas of maritime security, capability enhancement, and regional coordination.
The visit builds upon a series of recent defence engagements, including the official visit of Maldives Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon to India in January. During his trip, he met with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, where discussions focused on enhancing military cooperation. India also handed over essential defence equipment to the Maldives during this visit, responding to specific requests from the Maldivian government.
Both nations reviewed their comprehensive defence and security ties, reaffirming their commitment to a shared vision under the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership. Minister Maumoon thanked India for its longstanding role as the Maldives’ “First Responder” in times of need and expressed gratitude for continued support in infrastructure and defence personnel training.
These engagements reflect the deepening strategic relationship between India and the Maldives, aimed at fostering security, stability, and mutual growth in the Indian Ocean Region.
