India and Maldives engaged in the second round of talks in New Delhi on February 2 to address the longstanding issue of the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Indian Ocean archipelago. The talks come against the backdrop of increasing tensions between the two nations, with Maldives expressing the desire for the removal of all Indian military personnel from its territory.
A joint statement released after the meeting emphasized that both sides agreed on a set of mutual workable solutions to enable the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms providing humanitarian and medevac services to the people of Maldives. However, the statement did not provide specific details regarding the withdrawal of military personnel.
The next meeting of the High-Level Core Group, established by India and Maldives to address this issue, is scheduled to take place in Male on a mutually convenient date. The statement reflected the diplomatic nature of the discussions but did not elaborate on the specifics of the agreed-upon solutions.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu had previously set a deadline of March 15 for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. This demand was initially discussed during the first meeting of the High-Level Core Group held in Male on January 14. While the two sides agreed to expedite the withdrawal at that time, further discussions were deemed necessary by the Indian delegation.
The establishment of the High-Level Core Group was a result of a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Muizzu on the sidelines of the COP28 summit in Dubai in December. The group was formed to address and resolve issues affecting bilateral relations between the two countries.
President Muizzu, who assumed office in November, has been perceived as a leader with pro-China inclinations. His stance on the eviction of Indian military personnel from the Maldives has strained ties between the two nations. Shortly after taking office, Muizzu called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel, citing it as a commitment he intended to fulfill.
Currently, approximately 80 Indian military personnel are stationed in the Maldives, primarily tasked with operating two helicopters and an aircraft. These assets have been instrumental in conducting numerous medical evacuations and humanitarian missions, contributing to the close cooperation between the two nations.
As the discussions continue between India and Maldives, the diplomatic landscape remains complex, with the need for strategic considerations to balance regional interests and maintain stability in the Indian Ocean region. The upcoming meetings of the High-Level Core Group will likely play a crucial role in determining the future course of action and the resolution of the issues at hand.