India has assured its continued support to the Maldives in strengthening the island nation’s military capabilities to ensure regional security. The commitment was reiterated during a meeting between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Maldivian Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon, who is on his first official visit to India.

Highlighting Maldives’ significance under India’s "Neighbourhood First" policy, Singh emphasized the longstanding partnership between the two nations in maintaining security in the Indian Ocean region. He noted that India has consistently provided military equipment and training opportunities to enhance the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

“It is very important to move forward at this pace. India will continue to support Maldives and the MNDF through various projects, equipment, and training activities,” Singh said. He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to assisting Maldives in social and infrastructure development.

Maldives has made significant strides in rebalancing its military ties with India. In line with the government's pledge to remove foreign military presence, Indian troops stationed in Maldives to operate Indian-donated helicopters and Dornier aircraft were replaced by employees of the manufacturing company. These aircraft, built by a government enterprise under India’s Defence Ministry, are now operated by civilian personnel as per an agreement between the two nations.

Defence Minister Ghassan's visit comes as relations between Maldives and India have improved after initial strains under the current administration. The bilateral talks reflect a mutual effort to strengthen cooperation in defense while respecting the Maldives’ policy of sovereignty and self-reliance in managing its security assets.