The government of India has assured that it will continue to provide assistance and support to the Maldives. Minister of Defence of India Rajnath Singh made the remark during a meeting with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih at the President’s Office.
Speaking at the meeting, President Solih fondly spoke of the long history of close cooperation between the neighbouring countries and said the relationship between the two countries has been remarkable within the past four years, with numerous high-level visits and people-to-people contact. In response, Minister Rjnath Singh expressed confidence in the continued partnership in defence cooperation between India and the Maldives, highlighting that the commissioning of the Coast Guard Ship (CGS) Huravee and the landing craft gifted during his visit would strengthen the capabilities in the maritime security of the Maldives.
Additionally, President Solih commended the remarkable progress achieved in the hydrography surveys being conducted with assistance from India and expressed gratitude to the government of India for providing the equipment to undertake the study. Minister Rjnath Singh highlighted that three rounds of surveys had been conducted to support the Maldivian government's blue economy initiative. He then said that the charts drawn up from the surveys have now been shared with the Maldives and assured India’s assistance in the periodic update of the charts.
Speaking further, President Solih expressed gratitude for India's continued aid and support to the Maldives in various sectors, noting that it is a testament to India’s special regard for the Maldives. He also conveyed the commitment of the Maldives to strengthening this relationship.
Concluding the meeting, Minister Rajnath Singh spoke about the progress of various developmental projects undertaken by India in the Maldives and assured India’s continued assistance and support to the Maldives.