In a diplomatic twist, President Mohamed Muizzu has asked India to withdraw its 88 military personnel from the Maldives by March 15, following his recent visit to China. The President’s Office confirms this policy and emphasizes the need for Indian military personnel to leave.
A high-level core group, including Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar, met to negotiate the troop withdrawal at the Foreign Ministry Headquarters in Male’. Discussions focused on the formal request to withdraw troops by March 15, reported the SunOnline newspaper.
India’s External Affairs Ministry responded, noting discussions covered various bilateral cooperation issues. Both nations aim to enhance their partnership, expedite ongoing development projects, and find solutions to ensure the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms providing humanitarian services.
The diplomatic challenge raises concerns about regional stability. As negotiations unfold, the world watches closely to see how India and the Maldives navigate this diplomatic impasse and its broader implications for the Indian Ocean geopolitical landscape.