Rajnath Singh to Engage in Bilateral Discussions with Maldivian Minister Tomorrow
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New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is slated to engage in bilateral discussions with his Maldivian counterpart Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon, who is embarking on a three-day state visit to India, commencing on Wednesday.
During the discussions on Wednesday, both leaders will assess various dimensions of bilateral defence collaboration, including training, regular exercises, defence projects, workshops, and seminars aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Maldives National Defence Forces. Additionally, they will address the provision of defence equipment and supplies, as per a statement from the Ministry of Defence.
The Maldives holds a significant place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' strategy, which aspires to foster stability and prosperity within the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Both nations play crucial roles in ensuring the safety and security of the IOR, thereby contributing to India's vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR), the statement indicated.
During his visit, he will also travel to Goa and Mumbai.
Last week, Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdullah Khaleel, who was on a three-day visit to India, remarked, 'Our partnership dates back centuries. It is founded on mutual understanding, respect, and a shared commitment. Rooted in decades of trust and friendship, it will continue to flourish... As a beneficiary of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, the government of the Maldives highly values the importance that India places on its relationship with the Maldives. We have numerous instances where the Government of India has consistently supported the Maldives as an immediate responder in times of need.'
'We are always grateful to India for its timely assistance, particularly through grants and concessional loans. From a development perspective, assistance from India has been transformative. The Greater Male Connectivity Project stands as a prominent example that is poised to reshape the economic landscape of the Maldives,' Khaleel added.
