Joint Statement on the Visit of Defence Minister of India to Maldives
September 17, 2012
- On the invitation of the Defence Minister of Maldives, H.E Col. (ret) Mohamed Nazim, the Defence Minister of India Shri A.K.Antony accompanied by a high level delegation paid a three day official visit from 15th to 17th September 2012 to Maldives. In Male,
the Indian Minister held detailed discussions with the Maldivian side led by his Maldivian counterpart. He also called on H.E President of Maldives Dr. Mohamed Waheed.
- The Maldivian side welcomed the second visit of the Indian Defence Minister since 2009 as a continuation of the tradition of regular exchange of high level visits between India and Maldives. At the formal talks, both the sides reviewed the status of existing
bilateral defence relations including the projects being currently executed with the assistance of the Government of India. Noting the entwined destinies of the two countries and the commonalities in the security concerns, both the countries agreed to continue
to work closely in the area of defence and security.
- During the Call on H.E President Dr. Mohamed Waheed, both the sides noted with satisfaction, the enduring close and multi-dimensional relations and deep friendship between the two countries. Maldivian leadership conveyed its profound appreciation to India,
its close and trusted friend for its continued support and assistance to Maldives. Indian side was briefed on the present domestic political and economic situation in Maldives and the ongoing initiative to strengthen and consolidate the nascent democracy in
the country. It was agreed that both sides would work to step up the bilateral cooperation in all areas.
- During his visit, the Indian Defence Minister formally inaugurated with H.E Mr. Mohamed Nazim, the MNDF hospital "SENAHIYA” established in Male (Maldives) with the assistance of the Government of India. Indian Defence Minister also laid the Foundation stone
for the MNDF Composite Training Center, to be established with the assistance of the Government of India, in Maafilafushi (Lhaviyaani Atoll).
- Indian Defence Minister thanked the Maldivian leadership and the MNDF for the warm reception and hospitality provided to the delegation during the visit. Shri A.K.Antony invited Defence Minister of Maldives H.E Col. (ret) Mohamed Nazim to visit India. The
invitation was accepted with pleasure. On conclusion of the visit, which marked an important milestone in the bilateral relations, the Indian delegation was seen off at the Male Airport by H.E Col. (ret) Mohamed Nazim, High Commissioner of India in Maldives
and senior officials of the MNDF.
Male,
September 17, 2012