DHAKA, 18 January 2022, (TON): 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.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Maldives “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.”