In a notable escalation of his anti-India rhetoric, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has asserted that after May 10, no Indian military personnel, including those in civilian attire, will be present in his country, as reported by media on Tuesday.
This statement from President Muizzu follows closely on the heels of an Indian civilian team’s arrival in the Maldives, tasked with assuming control of one of the three aviation platforms in the island nation. This move occurred well ahead of the March 10 deadline agreed upon by both nations for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel.
During his tour of the Baa atoll Eydhafushi residential community, President Muizzu addressed the issue, highlighting his government’s success in expelling Indian troops. He dismissed rumors suggesting that Indian military personnel might remain disguised in civilian clothing. Emphasizing his stance, President Muizzu declared that come May 10, there would be no Indian troops in the Maldives, in uniform or civilian attire. He reaffirmed this confidence on a day when his country inked an agreement with China for military assistance.
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Earlier announcements from the Maldivian foreign ministry had indicated that India would replace its military personnel at the aviation platforms by May 10, with the first phase scheduled for completion by March 10.
President Muizzu, who rose to power last year on an anti-India platform, reiterated similar sentiments in his inaugural address to Parliament on February 5.
Despite opposition criticism and skepticism regarding the departure of Indian personnel, reports suggest that Maldives has already begun collaborations with Sri Lanka for medical evacuation flights, signaling its determination to remove Indian troops entirely.
President Muizzu stressed the importance of securing true independence, emphasizing efforts to reclaim the southern maritime area and expel Indian troops from the Maldives. He expressed confidence in achieving this goal, despite procedural hurdles and constitutional violations during the implementation process.
Given the Maldives’ strategic proximity to India and its position at the crossroads of vital sea lanes in the Indian Ocean Region, the country holds significant geopolitical importance. It has been a key maritime neighbor for India, aligning with initiatives such as SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the Neighbourhood First Policy.
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