Indian troops to exit Maldives completely, including civilian attires: Muizzu.
Shortly after assuming office, he swiftly demanded the removal of Indian personnel from the strategically significant archipelago in the Indian Ocean. This assertive stance reflects a shift in the Maldives’ foreign policy, signaling a desire for greater autonomy and independence.
Muizzu’s call for the exit of Indian troops, even those in civilian attire, underscores his administration’s determination to redefine the nation’s relationship with neighboring powers. The move, made within hours of his oath-taking, sets the tone for a recalibration of diplomatic ties and strategic engagements in the region.
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has intensified his anti-India stance, affirming that no Indian military personnel, including those in civilian attire, will remain in the country after May 10. This statement follows the recent arrival of an Indian civilian team to take charge of an aviation platform, ahead of the agreed March 10 deadline for Indian troop withdrawal.
Speaking to the Eydhafushi residential community during his atoll tour, Muizzu attributed the success of expelling Indian troops to his government. He also denounced false rumors, accusing some of attempting to distort the situation, as reported by news portal Edition.mv.
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has doubled down on his anti-India stance, declaring that Indian military personnel will not remain in the country beyond May 10, even in civilian attire. The President, widely perceived as pro-China, dismissed notions that Indian troops might simply change into civilian clothing, urging against spreading doubts and falsehoods.
I state this with confidence,” Muizzu asserted. This statement coincided with the signing of a military aid agreement with China, highlighting a strategic shift in Maldives’ alliances.
The agreement follows a diplomatic development where, after a meeting in Delhi on February 2, the Maldivian foreign ministry announced India’s commitment to replace military personnel manning the three aviation platforms by May 10, with the first phase slated for completion by March 10.
Currently, there are 88 Indian military personnel stationed across the three platforms, providing crucial humanitarian and medical evacuation services using helicopters and aircraft. Muizzu, who rose to power on an anti-India platform, reiterated his demand for the removal of Indian troops from the strategically vital archipelago in the Indian Ocean.
The departure of Indian military personnel, beginning with those operating helicopters in Addu City, is reportedly underway, with plans for those in Haa Dhaalu atoll Hanimaadhoo and Laamu atoll Kahdhoo to leave ahead of the May 10 deadline.
India’s agreement to withdraw its troops came with the stipulation that an equivalent number of Indian civilians would operate the aircraft. However, the Opposition has raised concerns, alleging that these civilians are actually military officials out of uniform, a claim that the government has refuted.
The situation has sparked tensions and speculation about the true nature of the personnel involved. Muizzu’s firm stance against any Indian military presence, combined with the shift towards Chinese military aid, reflects a significant reorientation of Maldives’ foreign policy.
As the deadline approaches, the fate of these aviation platforms and the broader geopolitical implications of this move remain subjects of intense scrutiny and debate both within Maldives and in the wider international community.
Recent local media reports indicate that Maldives has successfully collaborated with Sri Lanka to operate flights for medical evacuation, underscoring its determination to remove all Indian troops, regardless of their category. This move aligns with President Mohamed Muizzu’s unwavering commitment to achieving true independence for the nation.
President Muizzu emphasized the paramount importance of reclaiming the southern maritime area, which he views as essential alongside the expulsion of Indian troops from Maldives. He expressed confidence in the nation’s ability to achieve these goals, despite delays caused by what he described as adverse procedures during implementation.
He further criticized the manner in which these matters were handled, alleging violations of the Constitution.
Muizzu highlighted the urgency of these actions, emphasizing the need to correct past missteps and assert Maldives’ sovereignty. The collaboration with Sri Lanka for medical evacuation flights underscores the nation’s determination to establish self-reliance in critical services.
“I am confident we can achieve this. It was done without even taking the matter to the parliament … in violation of the Constitution as well,” the President remarked.
This bold stance against Indian troop presence and the strategic partnerships with neighboring countries like Sri Lanka reflect a significant shift in Maldives’ foreign policy. The President’s remarks highlight the nation’s resolve to reclaim its maritime territory and assert its independence in the international arena.
As the Maldivian government moves forward with its plans to remove Indian troops and strengthen ties with other regional powers, the geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean region continues to evolve. The upcoming developments in this regard will likely have far-reaching implications for regional dynamics and international relations.
The Maldives, located just 70 nautical miles from the island of Minicoy in Lakshadweep and 300 nautical miles from India’s western coast, holds immense strategic significance due to its proximity. Situated at the crossroads of crucial commercial sea lanes in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), it plays a pivotal role in maritime affairs.
The Maldives has long been a key maritime neighbor for India, featuring prominently in initiatives like SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the Neighbourhood First Policy. India’s relationship with the Maldives underscores the mutual importance of security and prosperity in the region.