Union Cabinet today gave approval for signing of a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty in Criminal Matters between India and the Maldives. An official release said, the treaty aims to enhance effectiveness of both countries in investigation and prosecution of crime, through cooperation and mutual legal assistance in criminal matters. In the context of transnational crime and its linkages to terrorism, the proposed Treaty will provide a broad legal framework for bilateral cooperation with Maldives.<br/><br/>The Cabinet also gave its approval for signing of an agreement between India and Egypt on Maritime Transport. It said, signing of the Agreement would help to encourage and facilitate the development their maritime relationship and cooperate in the task of enhancing and stimulating steady growth of maritime traffic.