India is going to build a new naval base near the strategically important island nation of Maldives. The country's navy announced the establishment of the base before the withdrawal of Indian troops deployed in the island nation.
According to a report in The Dawn, the Indian Navy said in a statement on Saturday (March 2) that it is strengthening its forces in the 'strategically important' islands near the Maldives.
Last year, Mohammed Muijju was elected President of Maldives through anti-India campaign. Relations between Male and New Delhi soon began to deteriorate. Muijju has already announced the withdrawal of all Indian troops deployed in his country as per the election promise.
India has been given a deadline of March 15 to withdraw 77 troops. These troops are stationed in the country to operate and maintain two Dhruva Advanced Light Helicopters and one Dornier aircraft given to the Maldivian National Defense Force.
China's presence in the Maldives is gradually increasing. Which India is looking at suspiciously. Recently, a strange diplomatic spat has erupted between the two countries, which analysts believe poses a threat to Delhi's strategic interests.
In such a situation, the announcement of setting up a jetty near the Maldives came. A statement from the Indian Navy said that the naval base will be launched next Wednesday (March 6). The base will be built in Lakshadweep.
India's Lakshadweep is located 130 km north of Maldives. In the meantime, warship 'Jatayu' is being sent there. The ship is expected to monitor the waters adjacent to the Maldives.
