In the aftermath of his inauguration, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu formally urged the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the archipelago. This plea transpired during his meeting with Kiren Rijiju, India's minister for earth sciences, the day after assuming office.
The official statement from the president's office highlighted Muizzu's assertion that the Maldivian populace, in the September presidential election, granted him a robust mandate to make such a request to India. He expressed optimism that India would respect the democratic will of the Maldivian people.
Muizzu, perceived as favoring China, campaigned on the commitment to expel Indian military forces and rectify the trade imbalance, which he claimed disproportionately favored India during the tenure of his predecessor, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
The election served as a quasi-referendum on determining the predominant influence in the Indian Ocean archipelago, with regional powers China and India contending for supremacy. Both nations have been actively seeking influence in this strategically positioned island chain, pivotal in the east-west shipping route.
The precise count of Indian troops stationed in the Maldives remains undisclosed. Critics contend that the confidentiality surrounding the agreement between India and Solih's administration, pertaining to the role and quantity of Indian military personnel, has given rise to skepticism and conjecture. The Indian military is acknowledged for operating two helicopters donated by India and contributing to search and rescue operations for individuals stranded or confronting maritime calamities.
Ibrahim Khaleel, the Maldives' minister for strategic communications, conveyed that the president will personally ascertain the number of Indian troops from officials post the weekend. The discussions unfolded in an affable manner, fostering hope in the Maldives for a prompt withdrawal.
Muizz's political ally, former President Abdulla Yameen, incorporated the Maldives into China’s Belt and Road Initiative during his presidency spanning from 2013 to 2018. This initiative aims to construct railroads, ports, and highways, facilitating trade expansion and augmenting China’s influence across Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Posts
0 Comments