Indian Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Bipin Rawat, on Monday, sat down with top officials of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) for discussions on increasing the operational capabilities of the Maldivian military.
According to MNDF, discussions revolved around the assistance that India's military could provide in order to boost the training and operational capabilities of MNDF.
"Moreover, [we discussed] options for both countries to cooperate in ensuring safety at sea, conduct joint exercises and joint training programmes", MNDF's website revealed.
Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed Didi, Chief of Defence Force Major General Abdulla Shamaal, Vice Chief of Defence Force Brigadier General Abdul Raheem Abdulla and Indian Ambassador to Maldives Sunjay Sudhir were present at the discussions in addition to MNDF officers and India's military delegation.
The Indian Army Chief arrived in Maldives on Sunday for a five-day official trip. MNDF previously disclosed that he would pay a courtesy call on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and meet with ministers as well as top military officials during the visit.
Bipin is also scheduled to visit MNDF's Nothern Area Headquarters established on Maafilaafushi in Lhaviyani Atoll before concluding his visit on Friday.
Sign In