India has provided the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) with defence equipment worth USD 4 million, according to Indian media reports.

Indian newspaper WION reported that the equipment, which includes vehicles for the MNDF and naval vessel equipment, was announced during Maldivian Defence Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon's current visit to India. India's Defence Wing confirmed that the equipment was provided in response to a Maldivian request.

During bilateral discussions held at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, Maldivian Defence Minister Ghassan and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed their commitment to work towards realising the India-Maldives Comprehensive Economic and Maritime Security Partnership, cited Indian newspaper The Hindu.

Minister Ghassan's talks with senior Indian Defence Ministry officials also focused on expediting the Uthuru Thilafushi project, being developed with Indian support.

Minister Singh pledged continued support for enhancing MNDF's capabilities across all sectors, including training, regular drills, workshops, seminars and defence equipment supply, in accordance with India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).