Tag: Indian Troops Withdrawal

  • ‘Not Even In Civilian Clothes’: President Mohamed Muizzu Sets May 10 Deadline For Indian Troops To Leave Maldives |

    Male: Hardening his stance, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has now said that no Indian military personnel will remain in the island nation past May 10, regardless of whether they are in uniform or civilian attire. According to The Edition, President Muizzu while addressing the residential community of Baa Atoll Eydhafushi said that the Indian military will not reside in Maldives in any form of clothing after May 10. He added said those who spread false rumours are trying to twist the situation.

    Muizzu said, “That these people [Indian military] are not departing, that they are returning after changing their uniforms into civilian clothing. We must not indulge such thoughts that instill doubts in our hearts and spread lies,” The Edition reported.

    “There will be no Indian troops in the country come May 10. Not in uniform and not in civilian clothing. Indian military will not be residing in this country in any form of clothing. I state this with confidence,” he added.

    Opposition Criticism 

    Muizzu’s statement comes amidst escalating criticism from the Opposition, which alleged that the Indian military personnel are surreptitiously operating within the Maldives. However, the President maintained that discussions between the two nations have facilitated the orderly withdrawal of Indian military forces.

    Shifting Dynamics In Regional Politics

    President Muizzu’s stance underscores a broader shift in regional dynamics, with Maldives increasingly gravitating towards China and distancing itself from traditional ally India. Muizzu’s electoral promise of ‘India Out’ reflects this evolving geopolitical landscape.

    Diplomatic Efforts And Continued Cooperation

    Despite the tensions, diplomatic channels remain open, with both India and Maldives engaging in constructive dialogue to address concerns and find mutually beneficial solutions. The recent arrival of Indian technical personnel signals a commitment to maintaining essential services while respecting Maldives’ sovereignty.

    Optimism Amidst Challenges

    External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has expressed confidence in diplomatic resolutions during a recent event, affirming that misunderstandings can be overcome through dialogue. Highlighting the humanitarian role of Indian aviation platforms in Maldives, Jaishankar underscored the importance of cooperation amidst evolving circumstances.

    Path Forward: Diplomacy And Collaboration

    As both nations navigate complex geopolitical waters, the resolution of tensions surrounding the Indian military presence in Maldives remains a priority. Continued dialogue and cooperation hold the key to addressing differences and fostering a stable, mutually beneficial relationship.

  • India, Maldives Agree To ‘Fast-Track Withdrawal Of Indian Troops’: Maldives Foreign Ministry | India News

    MALE: In a major diplomatic development, India and the Maldives have reached a consensus to fast-track the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the island nation. The decision emerged from the first meeting of the High-Level Core Group between the two countries, held in Male’ on Sunday.

    BILATERAL COOPERATION REVIEW AND DISCUSSIONS

    At the meeting hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, both sides meticulously reviewed their existing bilateral cooperation. The discussions encompassed a broad spectrum of mutual interests, with a particular focus on development cooperation, as detailed in the press release by the Maldives’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    WILLINGNESS TO INTENSIFY COOPERATION

    Expressing a shared commitment to intensify cooperation, both nations agreed on the swift withdrawal of Indian military personnel. The official statement emphasized this joint decision, and plans were set for the second meeting of the High-Level Core Group at a time convenient for both parties.

    AVIATION PLATFORMS AND ONGOING PROJECTS

    Earlier in the day, the Ministry of External Affairs disclosed that discussions also revolved around finding a mutually workable solution to sustain the operation of Indian aviation platforms, crucial for providing humanitarian and medical evacuation services to the people of the Maldives. The talks further extended to enhancing bilateral cooperation and expediting the implementation of ongoing projects.

    MALDIVES PRESIDENT’S MARCH 15 DEADLINE FOR TROOPS WITHDRAWAL

    Local media in the Maldives reported that President Mohamed Muizzu urged the Indian government to withdraw its troops from the island nation before March 15. Notably, this move aligns with Muizzu’s party’s campaign promise, making the removal of Indian troops a focal point.

    FOLLOWING THROUGH ON CAMPAIGN PROMISE

    Muizzu, soon after assuming office, officially requested the Indian government to withdraw its military personnel from the Maldives. Last December, he claimed that, after a constructive dialogue with the Indian government, an agreement had been reached to withdraw Indian military personnel, marking a significant development in the diplomatic relations between the two nations.