Maldives Joins Saudi-Led “Maritime Defence Coalition” to Safeguard Critical Trade Routes

The Maldives has formally joined the Saudi-led Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition (MMDC), signing the security charter during a ceremony at the Integrated Headquarters Bandeyrige.

According to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy signed the foundational agreement on behalf of the Maldivian government. The coalition aims to secure vital international shipping lanes, including the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden. The MNDF stated that by securing these waterways, member states intend to safeguard global energy supplies, protect freedom of navigation for commercial vessels, and maintain stable international trade routes.

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Saudi Arabia initiated the alliance to address rising security concerns across key regional maritime corridors. Formed in compliance with international law, United Nations charters, and standard international relations frameworks, the coalition brings together Riyadh, Male, and several regional partners sharing mutual security interests.

The MNDF noted that joining the alliance expands the role of the Maldives in regional maritime governance. Crucially, the partnership secures the primary sea routes that the island nation relies on for essential imports while further strengthening diplomatic and security ties between Male and Riyadh.

Several high-ranking dignitaries attended the signing ceremony, including Minister of Defence and National Service Hassan Rasheed, Minister of Foreign Affairs Irtisham Adam, and Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives Yahya Hassan Al-Qahtani, alongside senior personnel from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).