Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon to Visit India

News

Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon is set to undertake his first official visit to India from January 7 to 8, with a focus on strengthening security cooperation between the two nations. The visit signals renewed efforts to deepen ties between the Maldives and India, following recent political changes in Malé that had sparked concerns about a potential shift in the relationship.

The Defence Minister’s visit is part of a broader strategy to reinforce the Maldives-India partnership, particularly in addressing shared security concerns and maintaining regional stability. This trip follows the recent visit by Maldivian Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel to India, where key agreements were signed to bolster development cooperation.

During his three-day visit, Dr. Khaleel met with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, culminating in the launch of the second phase of the High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP). These initiatives underscore the collaborative approach between the two nations to foster development and address local needs in the Maldives.

Minister Ghassan’s discussions in India are expected to focus on critical areas of defense collaboration, including maritime security, counter-terrorism efforts, and capacity-building initiatives. Strengthening the strategic partnership is vital, given the shared challenges and opportunities in the Indian Ocean region.

The visit also highlights the Maldives’ commitment to maintaining a balanced and robust relationship with its key regional ally. By engaging in high-level discussions, the Maldivian government aims to reaffirm its strategic ties with India, ensuring continued cooperation on matters of mutual interest.

Minister Ghassan’s trip is anticipated to further cement the renewed partnership, reflecting a shared vision for peace, security, and prosperity in the region. This visit marks another significant step in the Maldives’ diplomatic outreach under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.