The new offshore patrol vessel gifted to the government of Maldives by the government of India, has been commissioned.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih commissioned the India-gifted patrol vessel, on Tuesday during a ceremony that took place at the port area of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF)’s Coast Guard Ships in Hulhumalé.

The ceremony was attended by Minister of Defence of India Rajnath Singh who is currently on a three-day official visit to the Maldives upon the official invitation of Minister of Defence and National Security Mariya Ahmed Didi, who also took part in the ceremony.

Tuesday’s ceremony was also joined by Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar as well as a delegation of the Indian government and senior officials of MNDF.

President Solih handed over the national flag to be hoisted on board the offshore patrol vessel to the Commanding Officer during the ceremony.

Named 'CGS Huravee', the ship began its service today and was given as an exchange for the ship previously operated as ‘CGS Huravee’.

The Indian Defence Minister delivered the offshore patrol vessel and landing craft donated by the Indian government to the Maldives, to his Maldivian counterpart.

Tuesday’s ceremony also saw Defence Minister Didi presenting a plaque of appreciation to the Minister of Defence of India in honor of the continued aid of the government of India.

The donation is expected to greatly improve the operating capabilities of the MNDF Coast Guard in maritime security and bolstering national security.