India to closely monitor Maldives-Pakistan defence cooperation

India has said it will closely monitor the Maldives' defence cooperation agreement with Pakistan and take any measures necessary to safeguard its security interests.

The comments were made on Wednesday by Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press briefing, in response to questions about agreements signed between the Maldives and Pakistan during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's visit to Pakistan last week.

A journalist asked Jaiswal about India's position on the approximately 20 memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed between the two countries, including an agreement to strengthen military cooperation.

The journalist also referred to concerns raised by former President and opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Mohamed Nasheed, who had warned that expanding military ties with Pakistan could increase India's security concerns.

Responding to the question, Jaiswal said India and the Maldives maintained close relations under India's Neighbourhood First policy and MAHASAGAR vision.

He said both countries remained committed to strengthening their relationship in ways that served their mutual interests.

Addressing the agreements between the Maldives and Pakistan, Jaiswal said India would closely examine such developments.

"Regarding India's safety and security, we will take whatever steps are necessary. We are prepared for that. If a situation arises where action is required, we will take it," he said.

President Muizzu visited Pakistan last week, during which the two countries signed MoUs covering 20 areas of cooperation.

Among the agreements was an MoU aimed at strengthening cooperation in the defence sector.

During the visit, Muizzu also met Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

The agreements have prompted discussion about the implications of closer military cooperation between the Maldives and Pakistan, particularly in relation to India's security interests in the Indian Ocean region.

Following the agreements, former President Nasheed expressed concern about the Maldives expanding military relations with Pakistan.

Nasheed said closer military cooperation between the two countries could heighten India's security concerns and pose risks to the Maldives.

India's response comes amid these concerns, with its foreign ministry indicating that it would continue monitoring developments while maintaining its relationship with the Maldives.

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