US signs Defense Cooperation Agreement with Maldives

“Framework for U.S. Department of Defense-Maldives Ministry of Defense and Security Relationship” was signed between Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for South and Southeast Asia Reed Werner and Maldivian Minister of Defense Mariya Didi in Philadelphia on September 10, 2020.

About the Framework

The Framework seeks to deepen engagement and cooperation in support to maintain peace and security in the Indian Ocean. It is also an important step in the defense partnership. Both sides reiterated their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

US-Maldives Relation

Background

The United States shares friendly relations with the Republic of Maldives. The United States supports independence of Maldives. US has also recognised the territorial integrity of the island country. US had also endorsed India’s timely intervention during the November 1988 coup attempt on behalf of the Maldivian Government.

Defense

The Maldives had extended support to U.S. efforts of combating terrorism and terrorist financing in 2001-2002. The United States also trains annually a small number of Maldivian military personnel.

Economic development

U.S. contributions make contributions to economic development in the Maldives through international organization programs. U.S. and Maldives had signed a bilateral assistance agreement for $8.6 million in reconstruction assistance following the December 2004 tsunami. The United States has also funded training in airport management and narcotics interdiction directly. US also provided desktop computers for Maldivian customs, immigration, and drug-control efforts.

Tourism

Around 5000-6000 Americans visit the Maldives annually.

Apart from that, The Maldives accepts the foreign investment. Further, areas of opportunity for U.S. businesses in Maldives include tourism, construction, and simple export-oriented manufacturing including garments and electrical appliance assembly.

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2020