India commences military withdrawal from Maldives amidst pro-China presidency

New Delhi: India has initiated the withdrawal of its military personnel conducting surveillance operations in the Maldives following directives from the newly-elected pro-China president, President Mohamed Muizzu, as reported by local media outlets. According to Mihaaru newspaper, 25 Indian soldiers stationed in the Addu atoll have already departed as part of an agreement reached between the two nations.

Withdrawal agreement

President Muizzu, who assumed office in October, pledged to remove Indian security forces patrolling the maritime borders of the Maldives. After negotiations, both India and the Maldives agreed to complete the withdrawal of 89 Indian soldiers and their support staff by May 10.

Transition process

As per the report, three Indian aircraft, comprising two helicopters and one fixed-wing plane, will now be overseen by Indian civilian personnel who have arrived on the islands. Although there hasn't been official confirmation from Maldivian or Indian authorities, the Maldives National Defence Force reportedly verified the commencement of the Indian troops’ withdrawal.

China's military assistance pact

In a significant development, the Maldives recently signed a "military assistance" pact with China, coinciding with India's withdrawal. The Maldivian Ministry of Defence cited the agreement as a step to bolster bilateral relations and disclosed that China would provide training under the pact.

China's response

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed support for the Maldives in safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and fostering friendly exchanges with other nations. However, India remains cautious of China's growing presence in the region and its influence in the Maldives and neighboring Sri Lanka.

Escalating tensions

Tensions between Male and New Delhi have heightened since Muizzu's electoral victory, with India asserting its influence over the Maldives while China emerges as a dominant player due to its economic ties with the archipelago. Despite denials from Muizzu regarding altering regional dynamics by engaging Chinese forces, India recently unveiled a new naval base on Lakshadweep to bolster surveillance efforts in the strategically vital Indian Ocean region.