Chief of Defence Force Major General Abdulla Shamaal has stated international cooperation is essential towards efforts to ensure national security.
Speaking at a programme aired on TVM, Major General Shamaal said no country can ensure national security all on its own. As such, he said even the largest countries need to work with other countries in protecting and maintaining national security.
Noting the Maldives is located in a strategically significant location in the Indian Ocean, the Chief of Defence Force said the Maldives needs to work with neighbouring countries to ensure safety and security. In this regard, he noted India and Sri Lanka are very important partners for the Maldives in terms of national and regional security.
Speaking on the significance of Victory Day, Major General Shamaal said the terrorist attacks on November 3, 1988 turned Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) to a true military force. Noting the military had not been prepared for such an attack back then, Major General Shamaal said the MNDF has come a long way since the attack. In this regard, he highlighted the high level of training provided to military personnel and the acquisition of weapons over the years.