Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will meet his Maldivian counterpart Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon in New Delhi on Wednesday, months after New Delhi withdrew its military personnel from the island nation following a demand by President Muizzu.

"During the talks, the two Ministers will review the various facets of bilateral defence cooperation including training, regular exercises, defence projects, workshops and seminars to enhance the capability of the Maldives National Defence Forces as well as supply of defence equipment & stores," read a statement issued by the Indian government.

The Maldives occupies a special place in India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, which aims to bring stability and prosperity to the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), the Indian government observed.

Mohammed Ghassan Maumoon will visit India from January 8 to January 10.

During his India trip, he will also visit Mumbai and Goa.

The relationship between India and Maldives touched low points after Muizzu-led government came to power in 2023.

Muizzu is known for his leanings towards China.

Showing signs of improvement in the bond, Muizzu visited India late last year.