President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that there are no significant concerns regarding the military agreements signed under the previous administration.

During the press conference at the President’s Office today, he stated that the agreements contain confidentiality clauses, which prevent public disclosure without the consent of the partnering nations. He noted that bilateral discussions are ongoing to determine how much information can be revealed.

President Dr Muizzu also mentioned that the hydrography agreement – which enabled comprehensive mapping of the Maldivian seabed – will not be renewed upon its expiry. He indicated that while the Maldives remains open to receiving foreign technical assistance to build national capacity in such areas, allowing foreign personnel to be stationed in the country would conflict with core national policy.

He stressed that the Maldives’ independence must remain unquestioned, regardless of the size, proximity, or generosity of any foreign nation. He said that any elements in previous agreements that could have undermined the country’s sovereignty no longer exist.

Addressing the broader state of the military, the President said that the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) had suffered from long-term neglect, with little effort made to enhance its capacity over the past two decades. He described this as a serious disadvantage and affirmed that strengthening the armed forces has now become a government priority.

As part of this effort, the Administration is working to establish and expand an Air Corps. President Dr Muizzu added that plans are in place to double the capacity of the Coast Guard and to strengthen the Marine Corps. Upgrades are also being planned for the Fire and Rescue Service, which he identified as an area of major concern, with a two-year development programme currently underway.

He said that the most effective way to protect Maldivian territory is through investment in advanced technology. According to the President, the goal of building military capability is to ensure that the Maldives remains a proud and sovereign nation.