Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Donald Lu, announced on Friday that discussions are underway for the United States to provide sea and air vessels to enhance Maldivian maritime surveillance capabilities.

Lu made this revelation during a Pacific relations panel discussion at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), emphasizing the critical need for such support as the Maldives, with its 1200 islands, is tasked with surveilling an extensive 53,000 km of water.

He underscored that effective maritime surveillance requires advanced technology and comprehensive training.

The decision to enhance Maldivian maritime capabilities comes at a time of heightened tension, particularly regarding the presence of Indian military operations using Dornier crafts under the hydrography agreement in the region.

Following two rounds of discussions with the Indian government, an agreement has been reached that all Indian military personnel will be withdrawn by May 10, to be replaced by a civilian technician team responsible for the operations.

President Muizzu, who has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts, reiterated the progress being made to provide the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) with the necessary resources for maritime surveillance, emphasizing the nation's commitment to self-reliance in this crucial domain.

This move aligns with the government's vision to strengthen the capabilities of the MNDF and ensure the security and sovereignty of Maldivian waters.

As discussions between the United States and the Maldives progress, the prospect of American assistance in maritime surveillance is anticipated to not only enhance the nation's security apparatus but also foster stronger diplomatic ties between the two nations in the realm of maritime cooperation.