Maldives has asked Indian troops to leave the archipelago and inked a “military assistance” pact with China. The Defense Minister of Maldives and a high-ranking Chinese military official signed the agreement, aiming to strengthen their bilateral ties. This marks a shift in relations as the island nation, historically close to India, took a different stance after President Mohamed Muizzu, who favored a pro-China approach, assumed office in the last elections.
Around 89 Indian troops, stationed to operate three reconnaissance aircraft gifted by India for monitoring maritime borders, are set to leave by May 10 as per President Muizzu’s directive. India plans to replace military personnel with civilians to manage the aircraft. The Maldives decision is viewed against the backdrop of strategic positioning along key shipping routes in the Indian Ocean, traditionally considered within India’s sphere of influence.
The rift between India and Maldives has widened, while China’s influence grows. The Maldives recently permitted a Chinese marine research vessel to dock, and President Muizzu signed various deals with China during a visit to Beijing. India, cautious of China’s expanding presence in the Indian Ocean, particularly in nations like Maldives and Sri Lanka, announced heightened operational surveillance from the nearby Minicoy island. The geopolitical dynamics in the region are evolving, with implications for the balance of power.
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