How is India Strengthening Maritime Cooperation with Maldives?
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Synopsis
India's Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti met with Maldivian officials to discuss maritime security and cooperation. Their discussions highlighted the importance of addressing regional challenges and enhancing defense ties. This collaboration signifies India's commitment to a secure Indian Ocean region, showcasing the deepening relationship between India and the Maldives.
Key Takeaways
- India and Maldives are enhancing maritime cooperation.
- Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti's visit emphasizes regional security.
- Discussions included training and drug trafficking.
- Exercise Ekatha showcases joint operational capabilities.
- Strengthening defense ties benefits both nations.
Male, Dec 17 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, met with Maldives Foreign Affairs Minister Abdulla Khaleel and National Security Advisor Ibrahim Latheef on Wednesday, reaffirming India's dedication to strengthening maritime cooperation with the Maldives for a secure and safe Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
During his ongoing visit to the Maldives, VAdm Tarun Sobti engaged with H.E. Dr Abdulla Khaleel and H.E. Ibrahim Latheef. The DCNS emphasized India's commitment to improving maritime collaboration with the Maldives, ensuring a safer IOR, as highlighted by the Indian Navy spokesperson on X.
On Tuesday, Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, accompanied by India’s High Commissioner to Maldives G Balasubramanian and Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Force of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), participated in the closing ceremony of the 8th edition of Exercise Ekatha at the MNDF Central Command in Kadhdhoo.
The spokesperson noted, “The closing ceremony of the 8th edition of Exercise Ekatha was held at the MNDF Central Area Command, Kadhdhoo. This exercise involved 30 days of rigorous training in Diving & Asymmetric Warfare between MARCOS and the Maldives National Defence Force Marine Corps.”
Notably, on Monday, Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti delivered a shipment of operational spares for the MNDF Coast Guard Ship Huravee to Major General Ibrahim Hilmy during a ceremony in Male.
The Indian Navy spokesperson elaborated, “In alignment with India's commitment to regional maritime security under the vision of 'Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth for all in the Region (#MAHASAGAR) and the #NeighbourhoodFirst policy, VAdm Tarun Sobti handed over a consignment of operational spares for MNDF Coast Guard Ship Huravee.”
On his visit, Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti also met with the Maldives Chief of Defence Force, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, to discuss maritime security challenges, training collaborations, and cooperative efforts against drug trafficking.
The discussions included various ongoing projects and enhancing maritime information sharing between the navies of India and the Maldives.
“During his inaugural visit to Male, Maldives, VAdm Tarun Sobti engaged with Maj Gen Ibrahim Hilmy regarding maritime security challenges, training collaborations, and anti-drug trafficking initiatives. This first visit by the DCNS underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to its regional partners. They also deliberated on ongoing projects and improving maritime information sharing between both navies,” stated the Indian Navy spokesperson.
Major General Ibrahim Hilmy expressed his gratitude for the productive discussions, stating, “It was an honor to meet Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti at the Integrated Headquarters of the MNDF and discuss maritime security cooperation along with our strong defense ties.”
On Sunday, Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti arrived in the Maldives to attend the closing ceremony of the eighth edition of Exercise Ekatha, which began in November. As per the Indian High Commission in Maldives, this joint exercise aims to bolster cooperation to tackle shared maritime challenges.
Point of View
The strengthening of maritime cooperation between India and the Maldives is a significant step towards ensuring regional security and stability. This collaboration not only enhances military ties but also promotes mutual interests in safeguarding maritime routes, which are vital for trade and economic growth in the region.
NationPress
19/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of India-Maldives maritime cooperation?
The cooperation is crucial for ensuring the security of the Indian Ocean Region, addressing shared challenges, and enhancing defense ties.
Who is Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti?
He is the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff of the Indian Navy, responsible for overseeing naval operations and strategy.
What was discussed during the meeting between Indian and Maldivian officials?
Discussions focused on maritime security challenges, training engagements, and cooperation against drug trafficking.
What is Exercise Ekatha?
It is a joint military exercise between India and the Maldives aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and cooperation.
How does this cooperation benefit both nations?
It strengthens defense ties, enhances regional security, and allows for better collaboration on maritime issues.
