Australia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with the Maldives as President Dr Mohamed Muizzu commissioned the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard Ship Imaduddin, donated by the Australian Government to enhance the country's maritime security capabilities.
The commissioning ceremony was held at the Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) Hulhumalé Port, where President Muizzu officially brought the vessel into service. The ship was donated under the Australian Defence Cooperation Programme as a symbol of the close and longstanding relationship between the Maldives and Australia.
Built by Austal Limited at the Henderson Shipyard in Perth, Australia, the vessel was delivered following specialised training and familiarisation exercises undertaken by MNDF Coast Guard personnel in Australia to prepare for its operation.
During the ceremony, the Maldivian national flag was hoisted at the bow of the vessel, the MNDF flag was raised at the stern, and the commissioning pennant was formally placed on the main halyard.
Addressing the ceremony, Australia's Special Envoy for the Indian Ocean, Tim Watts, described the defence partnership between the two countries as strong and expanding, saying Australia remains committed to deepening military cooperation with the Maldives.
He noted that since diplomatic relations were established in 1974, the two countries have worked closely across a range of sectors, with their partnership built on mutual trust, shared values and respect for international rules and principles. He said the donation of Imaduddin reflects the strength of that enduring relationship.
Watts highlighted the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean, noting that around one-third of global trade and two-thirds of the world's oil shipments pass through the region. He said Australia and the Maldives are working together to strengthen maritime security in response to evolving regional challenges.
"Australia is working with partners across the Indian Ocean to enhance regional capabilities, strengthen maritime cooperation, deter threats, maintain stability and protect the freedom on which we all depend," he said.
"The security of the Indian Ocean is a shared concern for both our countries, and it is an issue we are committed to addressing together with the Maldives."
He also highlighted the broad scope of bilateral cooperation, noting that relations have expanded beyond defence to include education, maritime affairs and international engagement. Many Maldivian students pursue higher education in Australia each year, while thousands of Australian tourists visit the Maldives annually. He added that both countries also work closely together in international forums.
Watts expressed confidence that Imaduddin will play a vital role in strengthening the Maldives' maritime security, enhancing law enforcement capabilities, supporting humanitarian assistance during emergencies and improving the country's ability to respond to future challenges at sea.
Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy said the new Coast Guard ship represents another important milestone in strengthening the operational capability of the Maldivian military.
He said the vessel will improve the Coast Guard's ability to respond to emerging threats while enhancing maritime law enforcement, safety and security across the country's vast territorial waters. He added that Imaduddin will also serve as a symbol of the professionalism and capability of the MNDF during international port visits and maritime engagements.
Major General Hilmy said growing regional security challenges require stronger national and international cooperation to safeguard the Maldives' sovereignty and national interests.
He noted that the government is continuing to modernise the country's defence forces across land, sea and air. Among the key developments, he highlighted the acquisition of a modern Turkish naval vessel and the establishment of a specialised boat squadron for underwater and maritime operations. He also announced that V-interceptor craft for coastal security are expected to be introduced before this year's Victory Day.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy and Australian High Commissioner to the Maldives David Jessup.
The donation of Imaduddin forms part of President Muizzu's broader efforts to strengthen the Maldives National Defence Force, expand Coast Guard capabilities and enhance the country's ability to protect its maritime domain.
