By Sangeeta Saxena
New Delhi. 07 September 2024. After a period of tension, there has been a noticeable warming in the diplomatic relationship between India and the Maldives in recent months. The improvement is the result of high level talks between the two countries to improve bilateral cooperation in fields like trade, defence, and regional security. Mutual efforts to restore confidence and promote cooperation characterise this re-established alliance, which reflects both countries’ larger commitment to preserving security and prosperity in the Indian Ocean area. The better ties herald a new era in India Maldives diplomacy, as constructive engagement is replacing old conflicts.
5th Defence Cooperation Dialogue between India and the Maldives took place in New Delhi on September 06, 2024. The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, while the Maldivian delegation was headed by Chief of Defence Force, Maldives National Defence Force General lbrahim Hilmy.
The strategic significance of the Maldives to India stems from its close proximity to the country’s west coast—just 70 nautical miles separate Minicoy and the Indian west coast from 300 nautical miles—as well as its location at the intersection of major commercial sea lanes that traverse the Indian Ocean, especially the 8° N and 1 ½° N channels. India holds a dominant position in the Maldives, with connections spanning almost all domains. It is widely acknowledged that India plays a crucial strategic role in the Maldives and is regarded as a supplier of internet security. Under India’s “Neighbourhood First” foreign policy, which seeks to establish peace and development in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), Maldives holds a special position.
The meeting provided both sides with an opportunity to discuss the matters related to bilateral defence cooperation. This, inter alia, included expediting the implementation of various ongoing defence cooperation projects. The two sides also deliberated on few other areas of common interest such as high-level exchanges and capability development projects. The aspects of participation in forthcoming bilateral military exercise were also discussed. The entire range of talks were productive which will advance shared interests of both the nations in near future and bring stability & prosperity in the Indian Ocean Region.