Maldives-Bangladesh discuss strengthening defense ties

Maldives and Bangladesh have held discussions on further strengthening bilateral defence ties and expanding military cooperation between the two countries.

According to Bangladesh's The Business Standard, the discussions took place on Wednesday during a courtesy call by Bangladesh's High Commissioner to the Maldives, Dr. Nazmul Islam, on the Chief of Defense Force of the Maldives National Defense Force, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy.

During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on strengthening ties between their respective defense establishments and exploring further opportunities for military cooperation.

According to the publication, the discussions primarily focused on the exchange of knowledge and technical expertise, as well as enhancing institutional-level engagement. The two sides also discussed capacity building, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief operations and cooperation in maritime security.

The report noted that these efforts reflect the commitment of both countries to maintaining regional peace and stability in the Indian Ocean. Both officials expressed interest in advancing defense cooperation in areas of mutual strategic benefit.

The report further stated that the High Commission of Bangladesh remains committed to strengthening institutional ties across various sectors, including defense and military affairs, to further reinforce relations between the two countries.

Previously, on September 14, 2024, Chief of Defense Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy paid a courtesy visit to Lieutenant General S.M. Kamrul Hassan, Principal Staff Officer of Bangladesh's Armed Forces Division (AFD), at Dhaka Cantonment to discuss bilateral defense relations.