ANI
The diplomatic tension between the Maldives and India has intensified following a recent incident where Indian coast guard personnel allegedly boarded three Maldivian fishing vessels within the Maldives' economic zone. The Maldivian government has formally requested India to provide ‘comprehensive details’ of the incident, escalating the already strained bilateral ties between the two nations. This clash comes against the backdrop of President Mohamed Muizzu's pro-China stance since assuming power in November 2023.
Background of the Incident
On January 31, the Indian Army intercepted a Maldivian fishing boat operating within the Maldives' Special Economic Zone, specifically 72 nautical miles northeast of Dhidhdhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll. The Maldives' defense ministry released a statement claiming that Indian coast guard personnel boarded three fishing boats within the Maldivian EEZ without prior consultation, thereby violating international maritime laws and regulations.
In response to the alleged infringement, the Maldivian government has formally initiated an official request through its Ministry of Foreign Affairs, seeking comprehensive details of the incident from the Indian government. As of now, there has been no official response from the Indian government regarding the accusations leveled by the Maldives.
The recent incident adds another layer to the strained diplomatic relations between the Maldives and India since President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as a pro-China leader, assumed office in November 2023. The Maldivian president, at that time, formally requested India to withdraw its military personnel from the country by March 15, citing a ‘strong mandate’ from the Maldivian people. This move came after derogatory social media posts by three Maldivian ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, leading to a diplomatic row.
In recent developments, India and the Maldives have reportedly agreed on a "set of mutually workable solutions" to continue the operations of Indian aviation platforms in the Maldives. Currently, around 80 Indian military personnel operate two helicopters and an aircraft in the Maldives, conducting medical evacuations and humanitarian missions. The Maldivian foreign ministry stated that the replacement of military personnel in the aviation platforms would be completed by May 10, with the first phase scheduled for completion by March 10.
President Muizzu, who defeated the India-friendly incumbent Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the presidential runoff in September 2023. His pro-China stance has shaped several diplomatic decisions, including the call for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and a diplomatic row fueled by social media posts.
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