In a move escalating tensions between India and the Maldives, President Mohamed Muizzu formally requested the withdrawal of 77 Indian military personnel from the island nation. The request came a day after Muizzu’s inauguration and is in line with his campaign promise to expel Indian troops.
Mohamed Firuzul Abdul Khaleel, Undersecretary for Public Policy of the Presidential Office, disclosed that the new administration is reviewing more than 100 agreements signed with New Delhi. The agreements under scrutiny include defense pacts such as the Uthuru Thila Falhu (UTF) agreement.
President Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, reiterated his commitment to preserving Maldives’ independence and sovereignty by ensuring a “foreign military presence-free” country. The Maldives, a crucial maritime neighbor for India, has been a significant beneficiary of India’s Neighbourhood First policy.
Union Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju, who met with President Muizzu, faced the official request to remove Indian military personnel from the Maldives. The reviewed agreements, many of which were signed during the previous administration led by ex-President Solih, are now subject to scrutiny.
The situation adds strain to bilateral ties that have been on an upward trajectory, emphasizing the delicate balance in geopolitical relationships within the Indian Ocean Region.
By PTI
