Australia's Special Envoy for the Indian Ocean, Tim Watts, has said Australia is working to further strengthen its defence cooperation with the Maldives, describing the military relationship between the two countries as strong and growing.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the coastguard vessel Imaduddin, which was donated to the Maldives by the Australian Government, Watts said the Maldives and Australia have worked closely together on important initiatives since establishing diplomatic relations in 1974.
He said the bilateral relationship is built on mutual respect, trust and a shared commitment to international rules and principles, adding that the donation of the vessel symbolises the strength of that partnership.
Watts noted that around one-third of global trade and two-thirds of the world's oil shipments pass through the Indian Ocean. He said the region's security has long been a matter of concern, and that Australia and the Maldives are working together on a range of defence initiatives to strengthen maritime security.
"Australia is working with partners across the Indian Ocean to enhance regional capabilities, strengthen maritime cooperation, deter threats, maintain stability and protect the freedom on which we all depend," he said.
"The security of the Indian Ocean is a shared concern for both our countries, and it is an issue we are committed to addressing together with the Maldives."
Highlighting more than five decades of diplomatic relations, Watts said cooperation between the two countries has expanded in education, maritime affairs and maritime security. He noted that many Maldivians pursue higher education in Australia each year, while thousands of Australian tourists visit the Maldives annually. He also said the two countries cooperate closely in international forums.
Watts expressed confidence that the newly commissioned vessel would play an important role in safeguarding the Maldives' future. He said it would enhance maritime security, strengthen law enforcement capabilities, support humanitarian assistance during emergencies and improve the country's ability to respond to future challenges.