Can Maldives and India move forward?
15 April 2013 6:27 AM IST
After a year-long-freeze in bilateral relationship following the coup in Maldives in 2012, India is reviving relations with its Indian Ocean neighbour. The two countries witnessed a diplomatic irritation last month after former Maldives President Mohammed Nasheed was arrested against India’s wishes. But now, talks between Maldivian Defence Minister Col. Mohammed Nazim and his Indian counterpart is expected to take place on Monday.
Sources said following defence level talks, interaction between military officials of two countries is also scheduled. This is Nazim’s maiden visit to India and is crucial as it is the first official visit by a senior Maldivian Minister to India, after the recent political turbulence in Maldives. The Indian side, meanwhile, is expected to push for closer military ties between the two sides.
‘Maldives has always been a friend and we will extend all our assistance to prepare them for better,’ an MEA official said. The Indian side is expected to discuss the installation of more coastal radars in the island nation, sources said. India has shown concern over escalating Islamic fundamentalism in Maldives.
Sources said following defence level talks, interaction between military officials of two countries is also scheduled. This is Nazim’s maiden visit to India and is crucial as it is the first official visit by a senior Maldivian Minister to India, after the recent political turbulence in Maldives. The Indian side, meanwhile, is expected to push for closer military ties between the two sides.
‘Maldives has always been a friend and we will extend all our assistance to prepare them for better,’ an MEA official said. The Indian side is expected to discuss the installation of more coastal radars in the island nation, sources said. India has shown concern over escalating Islamic fundamentalism in Maldives.
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