Maldives requests India's withdrawal of military presence

Male: Following the swearing-in of Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, the newly elected administration made an official request for India to withdraw its military presence from the country, marking a significant policy shift.

In a statement released from President Muizzu's office a day after assuming office, it was confirmed that the government has formally asked India to remove its military contingent. The request was made during a meeting between President Muizzu and Union Minister Kiren Rijiju, who was present in the Maldives to attend the president's inauguration ceremony, reported AFP.

India currently maintains approximately 70 soldiers in the Maldives, responsible for operating radars and surveillance aircraft. Indian warships also play a role in patrolling the Maldives' exclusive economic zone.

During their meeting, President Muizzu addressed the presence of Indian military personnel, highlighting their role in aircraft operations for medical evacuation and anti-drug trafficking efforts. The Maldivian president acknowledged the invaluable contribution of Indian helicopters and planes in facilitating medical evacuations of Maldivian citizens and bolstering confidence among international tourists visiting remote islands.

While emphasising his commitment to security, President Muizzu reiterated his election promise of having no foreign military presence in the Maldives. He stated, "The country will not have any foreign military personnel in the Maldives." Additionally, he underscored the need to respect the security boundaries of other nations.

President Muizzu's stance, which refrained from specifically mentioning India, aims to maintain regional balance without escalating geopolitical tensions. He clarified that his intention to remove foreign troops from the Maldives does not signify an intention to replace Indian military presence with Chinese forces, emphasising the country's reluctance to engage in geopolitical rivalries.

"Maldives is too small to be entangled in geopolitical rivalry. I am not very much interested in engaging the Maldivian foreign policy in this," President Muizzu conveyed earlier in the week, indicating a cautious approach to foreign policy that prioritises stability and avoids exacerbating regional tensions.