In a resolute declaration of national sovereignty, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu maintained his anti-India stance during a parliamentary address, emphasizing that the island nation will not tolerate external interference. Reports from local media suggest that an agreement between New Delhi and Male has been reached, outlining the departure of Indian troops from The Maldives by May 10.
President Muizzu specified that the withdrawal process will commence with Indian troops stationed on one of the three aviation platforms in the archipelago leaving by March 10. Subsequently, those deployed on the remaining two platforms will conclude their exit by May 10. The decision also includes a noteworthy announcement that Maldives will not renew its agreement with India pertaining to the mapping of the country’s internal and underwater terrain.
“We will not allow any country to interfere with or undermine our sovereignty,” affirmed President Muizzu, underscoring the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its autonomy. The move to terminate the agreement with India on charting internal and underwater features reflects a clear assertion of Maldives’ intent to independently manage its territorial affairs.
Interestingly, President Muizzu’s address witnessed a notable absence of representation from the two main opposition parties, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats. The parliamentary session saw only 24 members in attendance, while 56 elected officials chose to boycott the President’s speech, reflecting the divisive nature of the decision.
As the geopolitical landscape in the Indian Ocean region undergoes shifts, the impending departure of Indian troops from The Maldives by May is poised to impact diplomatic relations between the two nations. The nation’s steadfast commitment to sovereignty sets the stage for a recalibration of international engagements and underscores the complexities inherent in regional alliances.
