Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reaffirmed India's commitment to support the Maldives in enhancing its defence capabilities, including providing defence platforms and assets. The two countries discussed deepening their defence cooperation, which would enhance the capability of the Maldivian National Defence Forces. The visit by Maldivian Defence Minister Mohamed Muizzu marked a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties, which had soured in 2023 due to an "India Out" campaign but have since improved. India has also provided a $750 million currency swap arrangement and assisted the Maldives in augmenting its modern infrastructural capacities and training of defence personnel. The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to work closely on a comprehensive economic and maritime security partnership, with several key projects including the Ekatha Harbour project for the MNDF Coast Guard being discussed.
https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/india-conveys-readiness-to-maldives-to-support-its-capability-enhancement-for-defence-preparedness/article69076839.eceOn June 17, a clash occurred between Chinese and Philippine ships in the South China Sea, marking an unprecedented escalation in the dispute. The incident involved six Philippine vessels attempting to deliver supplies to the BRP Sierra Madre, a grounded warship on Ayungin or Second Thomas Shoal, which China calls Renai Jiao. The Chinese Coast Guard took measures to intercept and expel the Philippine vessels, resulting in multiple collisions and close confrontations that were described as the most severe friction in the South China Sea in the past decade by Professor Hu Bo of Peking University's Center for Maritime Strategy Studies. A Filipino sailor was injured in the incident, losing his thumb in a physical scuffle with Chinese personnel.
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3293073/why-2024-was-most-violent-dangerous-point-philippine-china-ties-and-whats-next?module=top_story&pgtype=section