China has been following its policy of encircling India under its 'string of pearls' strategy. Beijing has been investing in ports in countries like Pakistan, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

The Indian Navy has been working to counter its influence by seeking enhanced partnership with over about 30 countries in the region, including the Maldives.

Antony is accompanied by a high-level delegation including Defence Secretary Pradeep Kumar, Director General Armed Forces Lt Gen N.K. Parmar, Coast Guard Director General Vice Admiral Anil Chopra and Indian Navy deputy chief Vice Admiral D.K. Joshi.

There is a proposal to link the Maldives coastal security network with the Indian coastal radar network. The step would help India secure its more than 7,500 km long shoreline.

During his visit, Antony is likely to hand over one Indian Coast Guard helicopter to the Maldives; a second one from the Indian Navy will be supplied later.

Antony will also attend the closing session of the India-Maldives Friendship function besides visiting the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital. The 200-bed general and speciality hospital has over the years provided the Maldives greater self-reliance in the field of medical care.

India was among the first to recognise the Maldives after independence in 1965 and to establish diplomatic relations with it. India's prompt assistance during the 1988 coup attempt, which defused the crisis, represents a watershed in India-Maldives relations.

It is also home to a large Indian diaspora.