India and Maldives held key talks on October 6, 2025, in Male to boost military cooperation and address security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh led the Indian delegation, meeting Maldivian officials to reaffirm defence as a core part of their partnership. The discussions aim to enhance stability amid shared threats like piracy and climate risks.
High-Level Talks
During his two-day visit, Singh met Foreign Affairs Minister Abdulla Khaleel, focusing on military ties, capacity building, and defence equipment promotion. He also discussed emerging IOR challenges with National Security Advisor Ibrahim Latheef. Singh led the 6th Annual Defence Cooperation Dialogue with Chief of Defence Forces Maj Gen Ibrahim Hilmy, covering training and bilateral exercises.
Building Defence Capabilities
The talks emphasized capacity enhancement for Maldives, which has a vast Exclusive Economic Zone covering 98% ocean territory, making it vulnerable to maritime threats. India committed to supporting exercises like Ekuverin, Dosti, and Ekatha to fight piracy, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and terrorism. This builds on India’s role as a “first responder” in past crises, such as the 1988 coup and 2014 water shortage.
Broader Strategic Partnership
The meetings align with the India-Maldives Vision Document from October 2024 and the High-Level Core Group outcomes from May 2025. India extended Rs 4,850 crore in credit and signed six MoUs in July 2025 during PM Modi’s visit marking 60 years of ties. Both nations aim for peace under India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and Vision SAGAR, targeting US$500 million in bilateral trade by 2026.
FAQs [Frequently asked Questions]
- What key topics were covered in the India-Maldives defence talks?
India and Maldives discussed military cooperation, capacity building, defence equipment promotion, and regional security challenges in the Indian Ocean, reaffirming defence as a core partnership pillar during the 6th Annual Dialogue on October 6, 2025. - Who led the Indian delegation to Maldives?
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh led the Indian side, meeting Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel, NSA Ibrahim Latheef, and Chief of Defence Forces Maj Gen Ibrahim Hilmy to enhance bilateral ties. - What joint exercises strengthen India-Maldives security?
Exercises like Ekuverin, Dosti, and Ekatha build Maldives’ capabilities against piracy, illegal fishing, and terrorism. India supports as a first responder, aiding Maldives’ vast EEZ covering 98% ocean territory.