During the visit, an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) will also be symbolically handed over to the MNDF. The ALH is expected to be positioned in Male by early 2014 and would be the second ALH to be provided to Maldives. The Maldivian Minister expressed his appreciation of the assistance being provided by India in this regard.
During the hour-long meeting, both the Defence Ministers discussed a number of issues relating to regional security and matters pertaining to bilateral defence cooperation between both the countries.
India-Maldives ties had come under strain in the last two years as the Indian Ocean island archipelago went through an political turmoil.
India remains wary of China's continuing efforts to expand its strategic footprint in Maldives.
India, on its part, has tried to stepped up its own defence engagement with Maldives as well as other countries in the Indian Ocean region. Antony had visited Maldives in August 2009. Indian warships and Dornier reconnaissance aircraft have been regularly helping Maldives in maritime patrol and surveillance.
