The US has signed a framework for defence cooperation with the Maldives to deepen engagement in support of maintaining peace and security in the strategic Indian Ocean, the Pentagon has announced, as the Trump administration looks to strengthen alliances in the Indo-Pacific to counter China’s growing presence in the region.
The framework for defence and security relationship was signed in Philadelphia on September 10 between Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia Reed Werner and Maldivian Minister of Defence Mariya Didi.
“The framework sets forth both countries’ intent to deepen engagement and cooperation in support of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean, and marks an important step forward in the defence partnership,” the Pentagon said.
The Indo-Pacific is a biogeographic region of Earth’s seas, comprising the tropical waters of the Indian Ocean, the western and central Pacific Ocean.
During discussions after signing the agreement, Mariya Didi said the framework will strengthen defence and security cooperation between the two countries, Maldivian portal Sun Online reported.
Mariya Didi said that peace and security in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean region is tied to the best interests of both countries.