Maldives President Announces Full Withdrawal of Indian Military Personnel by May 10

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has heightened anti-India sentiments by announcing that no Indian military personnel, including those in civilian clothing, will be present in the country after May 10. This statement follows the early arrival of an Indian civilian team tasked with taking charge of one of the three aviation platforms, well before the March 10 deadline for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel, as agreed by both nations.

Despite this, the Maldives has signed a “military assistance” deal with China and ordered Indian troops to leave. Approximately 89 Indian military personnel will depart by May 10, having been previously ordered out by President Mohamed Muizzu, who assumed office last year with an anti-Indian platform. During his tour, Muizzu addressed false rumors and accusations, asserting that Indian military personnel would not remain in any form, debunking notions of them returning in civilian attire.

A high-level meeting in New Delhi on February 2 outlined India’s commitment to replacing military personnel operating the three aviation platforms by May 10, with the first phase completed by March 10. The Indian troops have been providing humanitarian and medical evacuation services to the Maldives using helicopters and aircraft.

President Muizzu’s anti-India stance led to the demand for India to remove its personnel from the strategically located archipelago. While the first troops departing operate helicopters in Addu City, those in Haa Dhaalu atoll, Hanimaadhoo, and Laamu atoll Kahdhoo are also expected to leave ahead of May 10. India’s agreement to remove troops was conditioned on an equivalent number of civilians operating the aircraft.

The Maldives’ strategic location and its role in India’s maritime initiatives underscore its significance, with recent diplomatic shifts, such as allowing a Chinese research ship and receiving electric ambulances from China, indicating a reorientation away from traditional ties with India.

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