April 15, 2024 – Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has announced the departure of the second batch of Indian troops from the island nation, marking a significant step in fulfilling his pledge to reduce foreign military presence. This move comes amid a broader realignment of the Maldives’ diplomatic relations since President Muizzu’s rise to power in November last year.
The withdrawal aligns with an agreement between the Maldives and India, which stipulates the replacement of Indian military personnel with trained Indian civilians to oversee the operations of military aircraft gifted by India. The first group of Indian soldiers left on March 11, and the second group departed on April 9.
President Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, has emphasized that the remaining Indian military personnel will leave before May 10. The Maldives has recently signed a defense cooperation agreement with China, alongside several infrastructure development projects, indicating a pivot towards Beijing.
The Indian military personnel were stationed in the Maldives to operate helicopters in Addu and Laamu Kadhdhoo and a Dornier aircraft in Hanimaadhoo. The contingent also included doctors at the Senahiya military hospital. The Defense Ministry confirmed that 26 soldiers based in Addu were replaced by 26 Indian civilians, and a new helicopter was provided to replace the old one.
The departure of the Indian troops is being closely watched by international observers as it reflects the changing geopolitical dynamics in South Asia. The Maldives’ shift towards China and the consequent reduction of Indian military influence in the region could have far-reaching implications for regional security and diplomacy.
