Maldives and UAE Discuss To Strengthen Defence Cooperation

The Maldives and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed to explore avenues of cooperation in defence following the meeting of the Minister of Defence of Maldives, Mariya Ahmed Did and the UAE’s Chief of Defence Staff of Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Engineer Issa Saif bin Ablan Al Mazrouei. The meeting took place on the margins of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX 2030) which is being held in Abu Dhabi.

Speaking at the meeting, both parties stressed the importance of global defence exhibitions like IDEX and Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) which draws in high-profile international presence and figures such as decision-makers and defence specialists. Minister Mariya also noted that defence cooperation is the key to lasting peace and expressed confidence in enhancing defence cooperation between the two countries.

Minister Mariya also toured the exhibition during her visit and marvelled at the impressive display of new products. Following the meeting, she tweeted stating that it was a productive meeting. IDEX is the only international defence exhibition and conference in the Middle Eastern and North African region and aims to demonstrate the latest technology across land, sea and air sectors of defence. It provides a platform for government departments, businesses, and armed forces to meet and strengthen relationships as well.