New Delhi, Oct 21 (ANI): Minister of Defence and National Security of the Republic of Maldives, Colonel (Retired) Mohamed Nazim, arrived in India on Tuesday to meet his Indian counterpart, Arun Jaitley, to discuss the strengthening of bilateral defence cooperation between the two nations. On Tuesday, Nazim who is on a three-day visit, was accorded the Guard of Honour and he offered homage to India's bravehearts at the Amar Jawan Jyoti in New Delhi. Post the defence-level talks, the Indian side is expected to push for closer military ties with Maldives and the host country's assistance will focus primarily on capacity building of the Armed Forces while New Delhi will also supply equipment and assist in training. The decision to ramp up defense ties with Maldives was likely in wake of China's interest in the country.