India and the Maldives engaged in their second round of talks on Friday, focusing on Male’s request for the withdrawal of all Indian military personnel from the Indian Ocean archipelago. This demand comes amid strained relations between the two nations. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu had initially urged India to withdraw its military personnel by March 15 during the inaugural meeting of the high-level core group on January 14 in Male. While the Maldives asserted in a statement that both sides had agreed to expedite the withdrawal, the Indian stance indicated that further discussions would be required.
The core group, formed after a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Muizzu during the COP28 gathering in Dubai, convened at the external affairs ministry in New Delhi on Wednesday. However, there has been no official communication from either side regarding the outcomes of this recent meeting. Sources familiar with the matter, speaking on the condition of anonymity, revealed that persistent differences remained on the issue.
Tensions between India and the Maldives have escalated as President Muizzu took steps to strengthen ties with China, seeking to reduce dependence on India in crucial areas such as healthcare and food security. Muizzu, whose presidential campaign advocated for an “India out” approach, has specifically called for the withdrawal of over 75 Indian military personnel responsible for operating helicopters and an aircraft primarily used for medical evacuations and humanitarian missions.
Apart from exploring options for the withdrawal of military personnel, both nations are considering alternatives, including reducing the number of military personnel and replacing them with civilian experts capable of operating and maintaining the aircraft. Meanwhile, the Maldives government has not only signed agreements to purchase wheat from Turkey but has also sought assistance from Sri Lanka for medical evacuation services. President Muizzu has personally reached out to China to boost tourism to the Maldives, traditionally dependent on Indian travelers for the past two years. The situation remains complex, with differing interpretations of the agreements and ongoing negotiations to find a mutually acceptable resolution.
Check here for the latest updates in Hindi!