India begins troop withdrawal from Maldives

India's troop withdrawal from Maldives has begun. New Delhi has started withdrawing Indian troops deployed in the country amid the gradual deterioration of relations with the island nation. Maldivian newspaper The Mihaaru reported on Tuesday (March 12).

According to the Miharu report, 25 Indian troops deployed in Addu, the southernmost area of Maldives, have returned to India before March 10.

Mohammad Muizzu was elected President of Maldives in September last year with the slogan 'India Out'. He then called for the withdrawal of the Indian army to implement the election promises.

India had 89 troops deployed in Maldives. India gifted two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft to the country. Indian army was sent mainly to manage them.

India has agreed to withdraw all Indian troops from the Maldives by May 10 after recent talks between Male and New Delhi. The withdrawal process was supposed to start from March 10.

According to Mihaaru's report, after the departure of the Indian troops, Indian civil aviation personnel will operate two helicopters and a plane provided by India in the Maldives. By now they have reached Maldives.

However, Maldives and Indian authorities have not officially said anything in this regard. According to Mihaaru's report, the Maldivian National Defense Force has confirmed the news of the withdrawal of Indian troops.

Relations between Malaysia and New Delhi have been cooling ever since Muizzu became president of the Maldives. On the other hand, Maldives' relationship with China is warming.

Last week, Male signed a military assistance agreement with Beijing. According to the agreement, China will provide all kinds of military assistance to the island nation. 

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