World News: Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has firmly denied accusations of promoting an India Out agenda, asserting that the real issue is the presence of foreign military personnel in the country. Speaking at Princeton Universitys Deans Leadership Series on Thursday, during his visit to the US for the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Muizzu clarified his stance. He emphasized that the Maldives has never been against any one country, adding that the island nation faced a serious problem with foreign military presence on its soil.We have never been against any one country at any point. Its not India Out. Maldives faced a serious problem with foreign military presence on this soil, Muizzu told the audience, according to Maldivian news portal Ahdadhu. The people of Maldives do not want a single foreign soldier in the country, he reiterated.Maldives President Muizzu has publicly expressed regret over Anti India stance.This is what happens when you try to stab a nation who feeds you. pic.twitter.com/rZcUPCu9wF— Rishi Bagree (@rishibagree) September 28, 2024Strain on India-Maldives relationsTensions between India and the Maldives have heightened since Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, became president last November. Muizzu requested that India withdraw around 90 military personnel operating aviation platforms gifted by the Indian government. By May 10, India complied, replacing its military personnel with civilians to continue operating the Dornier aircraft and two helicopters stationed in the Maldives.Action against anti-Modi remarksMuizzu also addressed the controversy surrounding social media posts made by some deputy ministers in the Maldives, which included derogatory remarks about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. No one should insult any leader or person like that, Muizzu stated. I took action against it. Every human being has a reputation. Earlier this year, deputy ministers in the Youth Ministry were suspended after mocking Modis visit to Lakshadweep, implying India was positioning it as a rival tourist destination to the Maldives.
