What happened
On October 7, 2025, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh called on Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Khaleel during his official visit to the island nation. The discussions focused on military cooperation, capacity building, defence equipment promotion, and regional security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), reaffirming defence as a key pillar of the India-Maldives partnership.
Why it matters to India
The meeting underscores India’s commitment to strengthening bilateral defence ties and enhancing regional stability under the broader framework of the India-Maldives strategic partnership. The talks built on the outcomes of the High-Level Core Group (HLCG) meeting held in May, which reviewed progress on the India-Maldives Vision Document on Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Cooperation. Both sides agreed to hold the 3rd HLCG meeting in Malé on mutually convenient dates, reflecting shared priorities in defence, maritime security, capacity building, and people-to-people linkages, reinforcing Maldives’ role as a key maritime neighbour under India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy and Vision MAHASAGAR.