Indian Troops To Be Sent Back By May 10, Maldives President Muizzu Tells Parliament
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu asserted today in parliament that the nation would not tolerate any interference or compromise to its sovereignty. Reports from local media suggest that an agreement has been reached between New Delhi and Male, outlining the departure of Indian troops from the island nation by May 10.
President Muizzu specified that Indian troops stationed at one of the three aviation platforms in the country would leave by March 10, while those on the remaining two platforms would withdraw by May 10. Emphasising the refusal to renew agreements allowing foreign involvement in charting the Maldives” internal and underwater territories, the President reiterated the commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty.
President Muizzu”s address faced a strong boycott, with only 24 members of the 87-seat Parliament in attendance, as both major opposition parties, MDP and Democrats, abstained. This marked a historic moment, with 56 members skipping the session, highlighting the growing discontent and political tensions.
Despite the stated objective of reducing Indian influence, the presence of Indian soldiers has become a contentious issue since President Muizzu assumed office. The withdrawal of troops, as reported by Reuters, was reportedly agreed upon during a meeting in New Delhi. The External Affairs Ministry has clarified that mutually agreeable solutions will facilitate the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms, now to be manned by civilians.
Criticism of President Muizzu”s anti-India stance has intensified, especially as the Maldives strengthens ties with China. The shift in foreign policy, including President Muizzu”s visit to China and meeting with President Xi Jinping, signifies a departure from the nation”s traditionally close relationship with India and carries implications for geopolitical dynamics in the Indian Ocean region.
Opposition parties MDP and Democrats issued a joint statement, labeling the shift in foreign policy as “extremely detrimental” and emphasizing the importance of maintaining stability and security in the Indian Ocean for the well-being of the Maldives. Additionally, the leader of the Jumhoori Party, Gasuim Ibrahim, has called for President Muizzu to formally apologize to India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, advocating for diplomatic reconciliation to mend strained ties.
Tensions between the Maldives and India reached a new peak following disparaging comments from Maldivian ministers directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The formal protest lodged by New Delhi in response to these remarks, particularly concerning the PM”s visit to Lakshadweep, escalated the diplomatic dispute.
The controversial comments sparked a widespread outcry on social media, prompting Indian celebrities to boycott visits to the Maldives. In an unexpected turn, within a mere three weeks following the onset of this dispute, India”s standing as the Maldives” tourism market plummeted from being the third largest at the beginning of 2024 to now occupying the fifth position.
Historically, New Delhi had held the position of the Maldives” closest ally for several decades. However, this longstanding alliance has been strained since the election of Mohamed Muizzu as the President of the Maldives last year. The evolving dynamics underscore the complexity of diplomatic relationships and the rapid shifts in geopolitical affiliations, leaving both nations grappling with the challenge of managing a significant partnership under newfound strains.
