India and the Maldives have drawn attention in recent news due to a defence Line of Credit agreement worth USD 50 million. This significant agreement was sealed during the visit of India’s External Affairs Minister to the Maldives, marking an important moment in international cooperation.
Details About the Defence Line of Credit
This agreement has been anticipated since the Government of Maldives put forth a request in April 2013 for Indian assistance to boost the capabilities of Maldives Defence Forces, particularly in maritime surveillance. Further requests were submitted in October 2015 and March 2016. The agreement is beneficial for both nations, more so given China’s expanding influence in the Indian Ocean Region.
Development of Dockyards and Infrastructure
As part of the agreement, a dockyard will be developed at the Uthuru Thila Falhu (UTF) Naval Base, which lies a few miles northwest of Male. Indian assistance will aid this development, boosting Maldivian defence capabilities. India will also offer support for additional infrastructure needed for the harbour, develop communications resources, radar services, and training.
Counter-terrorism Collaborations and Review of Infrastructure Projects
The two nations have agreed to arrange the first meeting of the Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism. They will be collaborating on various India-backed infrastructure projects including the National College of Policing and Law Enforcement Studies.
Cooperation at Multilateral Bodies and Police Reforms
Collaboration at multilateral bodies like the General Assembly and Security Council of the United Nations Organisation was also discussed. The countries will work together on solidifying linkages between police organisations, supporting collaboration and cooperation in training management.
The Geo-strategic Importance of Maldives to India
The strategic location of Maldives in the Indian Ocean and its membership in important international groupings like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) highlight its significance to India. It is crucial for maritime trade flow and a significant part of India’s external trade and energy imports transit these sea lanes.
India-Maldives Security and Disaster Management Cooperation
India has consistently provided emergency assistance to the Maldives, reinforcing their bond. This includes actions like Operation Cactus in 1988 when India aided in the restoration legitimate leadership. The two countries also work together on disaster management initiatives, as evidenced by India’s swift response during the 2004 Tsunami and the drinking water crisis in Male.
People to People Contact and Economic Cooperation
The relationship is not just limited to governmental levels. Indian educational institutions host Maldivian students, and vice versa. Furthermore, tourism, being the mainstay of the Maldivian economy, attracts many Indian tourists, while others explore job opportunities in the country.
Challenges in Relations
Despite the robust cooperation, political instability in the Maldives, the rise of radicalization, and China’s increasing strategic presence pose challenges to the Indo-Maldivian relationship. The Maldives has also begun using ‘China card’ to negotiate with India.
The Way Forward
Strengthening the defence cooperation between India and Maldives will boost India’s ability to monitor Chinese maritime movements along vital sea lanes. In alignment with India’s “Neighbourhood First Policy”, India aims to continue being a committed development partner for a stable, prosperous, and peaceful Maldives.