Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met with Maldives Foreign Affairs Minister Abdulla Khaleel in Male to discuss defence cooperation, military training, and regional security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The discussions highlighted the two countries’ expanding strategic alliance, with both emphasising defence as a significant component of bilateral relations.

During his two-day visit, Singh also spoke with National Security Advisor Ibrahim Latheef about maritime security, capabilities enhancement, and upcoming problems in the IOR. Both officials discussed how to improve defence collaboration through training programs, information exchange, and joint actions aimed at maintaining regional stability.

Earlier this week, Singh led the Indian team to Male for the sixth Annual Defence Cooperation Dialogue, where Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Chief of Defence Forces, represented the Maldivians. The discussion focused on capacity building, cooperative military exercises, and future potential for armed forces collaboration.

Singh also met with Maldives Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon to discuss new opportunities for strengthening defence interaction and reaffirmed India’s commitment to peace and marine security. The sessions strengthen India’s long-standing role as a dependable partner in the Maldives’ defence development and the larger Indian Ocean security framework.