Minister: Defense cooperation must not involve permanent foreign military presence

Defense Minister Ghassan Maumoon states despite defense cooperation between the Maldives and foreign nations, for the Maldives, Defense cooperation must not involve permanent foreign military presence on its soil.

Speaking at a special session of the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue 2024 – Minister Ghassan said President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu places a high priority on bilateral relations and in this trajectory, enhancing bilateral defense cooperation.

In this regard, the Minister underscored that the new administration has been upholding historically close defense cooperation maintained with India and the United States since assuming office.

However, he cited strengthening Maldives’ own capacity as the highest priority under President Muizzu’s policies regarding military and security to ensure peace and stability, not only on land but also at sea. On this note, he detailed that defense cooperation is pursued with other nations for the purpose of strengthening the Maldivian military’s capacity.

Nevertheless, he stressed that defense cooperation must not involve permanent foreign military presence on Maldivian soil.

“For the Maldives, defense cooperation does not, and must not, involve a permanent foreign military presence on our soil. It is our hope, that our friends and partners will respect this democratic decision of the people,” he had said.

Speaking further, Minister Ghassan said ensuring the security and safety of small states has always been filled with obstructions. He emphasized the belief that small states will continue to become weaker if they do proceed by strengthening their power, both domestically and internationally.