JJ Returns from Maldives Visit

New Delhi, Feb 15 (UNI) Further cementing bilateral defence relations, Army Chief General JJ Singh returned here today after a four-day official visit to the Maldives.

During his stay on the Indian Ocean atoll grouping, Gen Singh discussed issues of mutual concern, including training of Maldivian Armed Forces personnel in various fields and conduct of joint exercises, an official spokesperson here said.

The visit by an Indian Army Chief to the Maldives was undertaken after a gap of two years -- the last visit by an Indian Army Chief to the Maldives was in November 2004 -- and assumes special significance in the light of increasing defence cooperation between the two south Asian countries.

The friendship between the two countries is based on common ideals and principles, arising from a significant legacy of historic links and common culture. India was the first country to recognise the Maldives on its independence in 1965.

During the attempted coup by mercenaries in 1988, India had provided immediate help by assisting in flushing out the mercenaries and restoring normalcy in the islands nation.

During his visit, the Army Chief interacted with Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom, Foreign Minister Dr Ahmed Shaheed, Defence Minister Ismail Shafeeu and Chief of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Major General Mohamed Zahir.

He also visited the newly-established Maldives National Defence Force Training Centre.

UNI