Maldives' President-elect Mohamed Muizzu wants Indian troops out, terms it 'unchecked Indian influence'
PTC Web Desk: Maldives' President-elect Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to seek full independence by requesting the withdrawal of Indian troops stationed in the island nation. This move comes as both India and China vie for influence in the region.
During his election campaign, Maldives' President-elect Mohamed Muizzu criticised incumbent Ibrahim Solih for allowing unchecked Indian influence in the country and for stationing Indian troops, which he perceived as a surrender of sovereignty.
Around 70 Indian military personnel are stationed in Maldives, primarily managing radar stations and surveillance aircraft, while Indian warships assist in patrolling the nation's exclusive economic zone.
Muizzu has initiated negotiations with the Indian government to remove this military presence, emphasising the talks' initial success. He stressed that Indian soldiers would not be replaced by troops from any other country. His intention to remove Indian troops does not signify a willingness to host military personnel from China or any other nation.
Muizzu's victory extends the geopolitical tug-of-war between India and China in the strategically located Indian Ocean. Successive Maldivian governments have leaned toward one of these Asian giants, with both countries heavily investing in infrastructure development and offering loans to gain influence.
The United States and its allies, such as Japan and Australia, are interested in bolstering India as a regional counterweight to an increasingly assertive China. Muizzu's predecessor, Solih, had steered the country closer to India.
President-elect Muizzu aims to change this trajectory by addressing the trade imbalance with India and welcoming cooperation with all nations, regardless of their geopolitical affiliations.
India has expressed its intention to engage constructively with the incoming Maldivian administration while closely monitoring Muizzu's actions. The Indian government highlights its assistance to the Maldives over the years, including financial aid and infrastructure projects.
Muizzu is scheduled to assume office on November 15.
- With inputs from agencies
