Forging friendships and determining shared goals were the main themes of the first Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2022 (IPE22) key leadership engagement in Maldives.
Senior Australian Defence Force (ADF) representative Air Commodore Nathan Christie and ADF contingent members met senior leaders from the Maldives National Defence Force on September 28.
“This is the first visit on the IPE22 calendar, and it highlights the importance of our relationship with the people of Maldives,” Air Commodore Christie said.
“It was a pleasure to meet such insightful and strategic-minded leaders. Vice Chief of Defence Force Brigadier General Abdul Raheem Abdul Latheef was extremely welcoming and engaging, as was the Deputy Minister of Defence, Uz Hassan Zameel.
“This engagement was about understanding each other’s perspectives and shared strategic priorities. As partners and Indian Ocean neighbours, it is important for us to understand each other and to communicate openly and effectively to ensure peace and stability in this region.”
He said they discussed topics of mutual interest and ways in which the two nations could continue to stay engaged to enhance a defence partnership.
“The predominant topics covered were personnel, training, cyber security, close personal protection, disaster response and maritime surveillance and awareness,” Air Commodore Christie said.
“There are many different ways in which Australia and Maldives can work together and learn from one another, with bilateral training of Defence personnel identified as an immediate and obvious opportunity, as well as further discussions about maritime surveillance.
“As Commander of the Surveillance and Response Group for the Royal Australian Air Force, I personally look forward to staying engaged with my Maldivian counterparts.”
