The US Indo-Pacific Command has provided assistance to strengthen the operational capacity of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

Commander Admiral John Aquilino, who is currently visiting Maldives, attended a ceremony held at the MNDF headquarters yesterday to hand over the grant.

Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Abdul Raheem Abdul Latheef accepted the assistance on behalf of the Maldives army.

Admiral Aquilino also paid a courtesy call on Lieutenant General Abdul Raheem.

During the meeting, the two leaders focused on ways to promote peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region and foster cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

Admiral Aquilino assured the Maldives that the United States would support the maintenance of peace and sovereignty in Maldivian territories.