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Maldives President has asked India to remove its Army by 15 March


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Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has given India a deadline to withdraw its troops from the country, requiring the Indian military personnel to leave by March 15. This decision follows Muizzu’s recent state visit to China and a diplomatic dispute between India and Maldives.

India-Maldives Relations and Recent Developments

Maldives strengthened ties with China after a diplomatic row with India, sparked by derogatory comments made by Maldivian ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The President, however, emphasized that despite being a small nation, no one has the right to bully them.

Official Statement on Troop Withdrawal

Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, the public policy secretary at the President’s Office, stated that Indian military personnel cannot stay in the Maldives, reiterating the policy of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and his administration. Reports suggest that around 88 Indian troops are currently present in the Maldives.

President’s Election Promise and Core Group Formation

President Muizzu, who campaigned with the “India Out” slogan, had promised the withdrawal of Indian troops. A high-level core group, involving both nations, has been established to negotiate the troop withdrawal, with the first meeting held in Male’.

India’s Response and Further Discussions

During the meeting, both nations discussed various issues related to bilateral cooperation. India highlighted the need for a mutually workable solution to allow the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms providing humanitarian services to the Maldives. The next meeting of the High-Level Core Group is scheduled to take place in India.

India’s Role in Maldives and Ongoing Cooperation

Indian platforms, including radars and surveillance aircraft, play a crucial role in the Maldives, aiding in humanitarian services and patrolling the country’s exclusive economic zone. The Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that India’s assistance has significantly contributed to public welfare, disaster relief, and combating illegal maritime activities in the island nation.

Historical Context: Shift in Policies

The shift from Ibrahim Solih’s “India First” policy to Muizzu’s “India Out” stance is not sudden. The campaign against India began in 2013 under Abdullah Yameen, the predecessor of Ibrahim Solih. However, Solih maintained friendly ties with India during his tenure. The role of social media, particularly Dhiyares News, was crucial in shaping the narrative against India during Yameen’s term.

President Muizzu’s Balancing Act

President Muizzu clarified that he does not intend to upset the regional balance by replacing Indian military presence with Chinese troops. The Maldives aims to strike a delicate balance between its ties with India and China, considering China’s economic interests and its status as the largest external creditor to the Maldives. Concerns have been raised about the possibility of the island nation falling victim to China’s debt trap policy.

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