The United States has donated maritime security equipment to the Maldives.
In a post on social media X, the US embassy in Male' said the US-Maldives partnership grows with the transfer of the equipment.
"Strengthening ties for a secure future. The U.S.-Maldives partnership grows with the transfer of Maritime Security equipment to the MNDF. Together, we build today’s foundation for tomorrow’s shared security," it stated.
The donation includes combat diving equipment, personal gear and operational equipment for the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Special Forces and Special Operations Group.
The MNDF said the equipment will strengthen the military's ability to conduct special operations and ensure the security and safety of the country.
US Ambassador Hugo Yon handed over the equipment, while Chief of Defense Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy accepted it on behalf of MNDF.
MNDF officers and a delegation from the US Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS) attended the handover ceremony.
The US conducted a training program for MNDF maritime security forces in January, while another training was conducted for the police, customs and immigration officers in April.
