Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi has expressed hope for continued defence and security sector cooperation with Bangladesh especially in the maritime domain.
Chief of Naval Staff of Bangladesh Navy Admiral M Shaheen Iqbal paid a courtesy call on Defence Minister Mariya Didi recently and discussed issues of mutual interest.
During the meeting held at Bandaara Koshi, Minister Mariya noted the "warm sisterly relationship" between the Maldives and Bangladesh.
Discussions also focused on ways to further boost cooperation between the two countries' navies, including the provision of training opportunities for Maldivian officers and sailors.
This was the first visit to Maldives made by a Chief of Naval Staff of Bangladesh Navy, which signifies the enhanced relationship between the Armed Forces of both countries, and reflects the strength and solidity of the Maldivian government’s policy of international defence diplomacy and cooperation, according to the Ministry of Defence, Maldives.
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Following the meeting, the Minister spoke to Monira Rowshan Akhter, the spouse of Admiral Shaheen and President of Bangladesh Navy Family Welfare Association over the phone, conveying her best wishes and a warm welcome to the Maldives.
Admiral Shaheen also met Chief of Defence Force Maj Gen Abdulla Shamaal and visited the Bangladesh High Commission in Male where he held a meeting with Bangladesh High Commissioner to Maldives Mohammad Nazmul Hassan.
After the visit to Maldives that began on January 14, Admiral Shaheen Iqbal is scheduled to begin his visit to Sri Lanka on Tuesday.