India and Maldives review defence ties during 4th Defence Cooperation Dialogue at Male

Male: The 4th Defence Cooperation Dialogue between India and the Maldives was held in Male yesterday. The dialogue was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and his Maldivian counterpart Major General Abdulla Shamaal. During the interaction, ongoing bilateral defence cooperation activities were reviewed and both sides expressed satisfaction at the increasing engagements. The talks covered the existing bilateral exercises, with both countries agreeing to increase the complexity of these drills.

Ministry of Defence in a statement said that Defence Cooperation Dialogue is the highest institutionalised



interactive mechanism between the two countries. The Armed Forces of India and the Maldives continue to seek bilateral cooperation in multiple fields and the increased engagements are a positive sign for the future of bilateral relations. Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane said that India looks forward to continued engagement based on the common understanding reached this Defence Cooperation Dialogue.  

During his visit to the Maldives, the Defence Secretary also called on Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi and Minister of State, Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid.