China has agreed to provide military assistance to the Maldives, the Defence Ministry said on Monday night.
According to the ministry, China and Maldives "signed an agreement on China's provision of military assistance gratis" to the Maldives.
Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon signed on behalf of the Maldives and Major General Zhang Baoqun signed on behalf of China.
The ministry made an announcement on X after signing the agreement, but further details were not disclosed.
The current ruling coalition of the Progressive Party of Maldives-People's National Congress (PPM-PNC) has always maintained close ties with China.
The former PPM government of President Abdulla Yameen also had close relations with China with mega projects carried out by China from 2013-2018.
Since President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed office in November, relations with India have deteriorated while moving increasingly closer to China.
He has requested the removal of Indian soldiers in Maldives and the Indian government has agreed to replace the soldiers with civilians by May 10.
Muizzu pledged to strengthen the military capabilities of the Maldives and reached an agreement with Turkey for the supply of drones.
Talks have also been held with the United States over financial assistance for additional maritime security equipment.
