The Maldivian government has held discussions with the United Kingdom regarding hydrography.
The talks took place during a meeting between Defence Minister Hassan Rasheed and the British High Commissioner to the Maldives, Nick Low.
Hydrography involves the scientific surveying and mapping of the seabed to understand its topography. President Mohamed Muizzu had previously been a vocal critic of a hydrography agreement signed with India by the former administration.
The Defence Ministry said on Friday that the meeting with the British High Commissioner focused on strengthening bilateral military cooperation. The ministry’s official statement did not mention that hydrography was discussed during the session.
It was High Commissioner Low who revealed that hydrography was part of the agenda. In a post on X, he noted that the discussions covered hydrography, counter-terrorism, military training, and maritime security.
Last week, the government also engaged in talks with the United States to bolster military ties and explore cooperation in infrastructure development. Following those discussions, a senior U.S. official visited the main port in Malé as well as Thilafushi, where the port is scheduled to be relocated.
During former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s administration, Muizzu had characterized the hydrography agreement with India as an act of national betrayal. Upon assuming office, he decided in December 2023 not to renew the agreement.
