India and the Maldives are set to fortify their defence cooperation as Maldivian Defence Minister Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon embarks on a three-day visit to India from January 8 to 10, 2025. This visit signifies not only diplomatic engagement but also highlights the strategic importance both nations place on their bilateral relations.
The agenda for the talks, according to India's Ministry of Defence, will encompass various facets of defence cooperation, including training initiatives, military exercises, and the supply of defence equipment aimed at enhancing the operational capability of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will meet with Maumoon to discuss these aspects extensively.
Following the shift to pro-China leadership under President Mohamed Muizzu, the India-Maldives relationship experienced strains. Muizzu’s administration had earlier called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives, leading to heightened tensions. This visit marks a pivotal moment as relations have begun to thaw, with both nations recognizing the necessity for collaboration.
During previous meetings, including those held last October 2024, significant agreements were reached aimed at fortifying economic and maritime security partnerships. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized India’s commitment to Maldives, stating, "India will continue to be a steadfast supporter of Maldives’ progress and prosperity.” This sentiment reflects the long-standing ties rooted deeply in shared history, culture, and security interests.
Both countries acknowledge the Maldives' special place within India's broader 'Neighbourhood First' policy, which seeks to stabilize the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) for mutual growth and security. The Ministry of Defence reiterated, "The Maldives occupies a special place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, aimed at bringing stability and prosperity.”
During this visit, Maumoon will also travel to Goa and Mumbai, where he is expected to meet with various officials, continuing discussions beyond defence to other areas of bilateral interest. These engagements signify more than just military ties; they reveal the strategic corridor through which both countries can channel broader regional cooperation.
The upcoming talks are not only timely but reflect the shifting political dynamics as India and the Maldives seek to restore and capitalize on their historical and cultural ties. Analysts suggest this relationship is pivotal not just for the two nations but for the greater stability of the Indian Ocean region.
Engaging with the Maldives is part of India's strategic outlook to bolster security protocols within its maritime neighbourhood, which is increasingly challenged by external influences. Confirming this standpoint, the Ministry of Defence added, "Both nations are key players in maintaining safety and security of IOR, contributing to India's vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)." This collaborative vision underlines India's approach to regional security frameworks, aiming not only for growth but also for reinforced alliances.
Significant discussions around community development projects are expected as the Indian government has pledged grant assistance to implement high-impact initiatives under Phase-III of the community development program. This commitment reflects India's enduring presence and influence within Maldivian domestic politics and socio-economic governance.
With the recent dialogue signaling positive momentum, Maldivian leaders are also expressing openness to re-establishing more grounded military relations with India. The backdrop of previous withdrawals stands stark against the current backdrop of renewed cooperation, indicating a potential shift back to intertwined defence postures.
Maumoon's visit embodies the hope for rebuilding those ties and enhancing collaboration across various sectors for shared security and development ambitions. Keeping the focus on collective security within their territorial waters could serve to deter other external threats, reinforcing the mutual interest both countries have.
Above all, the strategic nature of India-Maldives military cooperation casts light on the larger canvas of Indian foreign policy, situated within the rapidly changing geopolitical climate of the IOR. Given the historical bonds and cultural ties, the upcoming bilateral discussions could lay the groundwork for not just defence mechanisms but also broader political alignments as both nations navigate through future challenges.
All eyes will be on the negotiations, not merely for what is addressed but also for the momentum they will build for future collaboration and stability within this significant maritime region.