India hands over fast patrol vessel and a landing craft assault ship to the Maldives

New Delhi: India has handed over a Fast Patrol Vessel and a Landing Craft Assault ship to the Maldives on May 2, 2023.  The Fast Patrol Vessel, capable of coastal and offshore surveillance at high speeds, was commissioned as MNDF Coast Guard ship Huravee.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh, President of Maldives Mr Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and Defence Minister of the Maldives Ms Mariya Ahmed Didi were present on the occasion. 

Speaking on the occasion, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the handing over of the two 'Made in India' platforms as a symbol of the shared commitment of India and the Maldives towards peace and security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). He stated that India, through a robust defence ecosystem, has significantly enhanced its manufacturing capabilities to further support the capacity building of partner countries.

On India's strong defence cooperation with the nation, Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that the ties emanate from the twin policies of 'Neighbourhood First' and 'SAGAR' (Security and Growth for All in the Region). He recalled Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi's visit to the Maldives in June 2019, during which he emphasised that "'Neighbourhood First' is our priority and in the neighbourhood, 'Maldives is priority'.

The Minister called for enhanced cooperation among nations in the IOR to address the common challenges faced by the region. "The Indian Ocean is our shared space. The primary responsibility for peace, stability and prosperity in the region rests with those who live in the region. Peace and security of a region are best secured with cooperation and collaboration of the regional players," he said.

Earlier in the day, Shri Rajnath Singh called on Maldivian President Mr Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Discussions were held on ongoing projects and ways to further strengthen defence ties. The Maldivian President expressed gratitude for India's continued aid and support to the Maldives in various sectors, stating that it is a testament to New Delhi's special regard for the nation. He also conveyed the Maldives' commitment towards strengthening this relationship. The Raksha Mantri spoke about the progress of various developmental projects undertaken by India in the Maldives and assured continued support.

Defence Minister reached Male on May 01, 2023. On the first day of his engagements, he held talks with his Maldivian counterpart and Foreign Minister of Maldives Mr Abdulla Shahid.

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