India, Maldives sign defense cooperation pact

India and Maldives Monday signed a defense cooperation pact and five other agreements to expand bilateral ties, said officials.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and visiting Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom held talks to discuss ways to combat terrorism, before witnessing the signing the agreements.

India assured Maldives it was ready to protect its strategic interests and extend all possible assistance, including in maritime sphere and capacity building of armed forces, said the officials.

Apart from defense, other agreements signed were in taxation, tourism, space research and conservation. Endit