India Maldives Agreement 2020
India and Maldives Sign Agreement to Boost Defense and Security Cooperation in 2020
On 4th February 2020, India and Maldives signed a pact to boost defense and security cooperation between the two countries. The agreement was signed in the Maldivian capital of Male during the visit of Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. The agreement was signed by India’s Defense Secretary, Dr. Ajay Kumar, and Maldives’ Deputy Defense Minister, Brigadier General Abdul Raheem Abdul Latheef.
The India-Maldives agreement includes cooperation in areas such as defense, counter-terrorism, security, and maritime affairs. The agreement also aims to increase joint military exercises and training, which will help both countries to maintain peace and security in the Indian Ocean region.
The India-Maldives agreement is significant in many ways. Firstly, it will help to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries, which will have a positive impact on the overall security situation in the region. Secondly, it will enhance India`s ability to counter any security threats in the Indian Ocean region, which is of strategic importance due to the presence of global shipping lanes and the growing economic significance of the region.
The India-Maldives agreement comes at a time when China is expanding its presence in the Indian Ocean region. China has invested heavily in building ports, infrastructure, and naval bases in countries like Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Djibouti, which has raised concerns among India and other countries in the region.
India has been working with the Maldives to restore its democratic institutions and maintain its independence from China. The Maldives is a key strategic partner for India, and the two countries have been working together to counter China`s growing influence in the region.
In conclusion, the India-Maldives agreement signed in 2020 is a step towards strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. The agreement will help to enhance defense and security cooperation, maintain peace and security in the region, and counter any potential security threats in the Indian Ocean region. The agreement also demonstrates India`s commitment to support the Maldives in its efforts to maintain its independence from China.