India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has arrived in Maldives on an official visit.

He was welcomed at Velana International Airport by Maldivian Defence Minister Mariyam Ahmed Didi.

The Indian Defence Minister will hold discussions with Minister Mariyam and Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid during this 3-day visit.

Minister Rajnath Singh is also scheduled to call on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih as part of the visit.

This is the first official trip by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh since his oath of office.

Defence Ministry stated that the new navy ship gifted by India will also be officially handed over during this trip, as well as a fast patrol vessel and landing craft.