NB Viewpoint | Raksha Mantri hands over 'Made in India' Fast Patrol Vessel & Landing Craft Assault ship to Maldives

Rajnath Singh described the handing over of the two ‘Made in India’ platforms as a symbol of shared commitment of India and Maldives towards peace and security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

NewsBharati 03-May-2023 16:17:50 PM

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“India has emerged as a leading defence exporter in recent years. A defence manufacturing ecosystem has been created which has the advantage of abundant technical manpower. We produce world-class equipment to meet not only our own needs, but also for exports" - Rajnath Singh

"India offers an enhanced defence partnership to friendly foreign countries, that is accommodative of their national priorities and capacities. We wish to create symbiotic relationships where we can learn from each other, grow together and create a win-win situation for all. India’s commitment to support the Maldives will only get stronger with time” - Rajnath Singh

“The Indian Ocean is our shared space. The primary responsibility for peace, stability and prosperity in the region rests with those who live in the region. Peace and security of a region are best secured with cooperation and collaboration of the regional players” - Rajnath Singh

New Delhi, May 3: On the second day of his 3-day visit to the Maldives, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh handed over 'Made in India' Fast Patrol Vessel and a Landing Craft Assault ship to the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF) on Tuesday (May 2). The Fast Patrol Vessel, capable of coastal and offshore surveillance at high speeds, was commissioned as MNDF Coast Guard ship Huravee.

Speaking on the occasion, Rajnath Singh described the handing over of the two ‘Made in India’ platforms as a symbol of shared commitment of India and Maldives towards peace and security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). He stated that India, through a robust defence ecosystem, has significantly enhanced its manufacturing capabilities to further support the capacity building of partner countries.

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Delighted to handover a Fast Patrol Vessel and a Landing Craft Assault ship to Maldives today. It is a symbol of our shared commitment towards peace & security in the Indian Ocean Region. https://t.co/eGQhYbt7Br pic.twitter.com/ePWvJlNs5D
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) May 2, 2023

On India’s strong defence cooperation with the nation, Rajnath Singh asserted that the ties emanate from the twin policies of ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region). He recalled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Maldives in June 2019, during which he emphasized that “‘Neighbourhood First’ is our priority and in the neighbourhood, ‘Maldives is priority’.”

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Earlier in the day, Rajnath Singh called on Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. Discussions were held on ongoing projects and ways to further strengthen defence ties. The Maldivian President expressed gratitude for India’s continued aid and support to the Maldives in various sectors, stating that it is a testament to New Delhi’s special regard for the nation. He also conveyed the Maldives’ commitment towards strengthening this relationship. Singh spoke about the progress of various developmental projects undertaken by India in the Maldives & assured continued support.