The President of Maldives has set a deadline for India to withdraw its troops. This decision comes on the heels of Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep, where he shared snapshots of the picturesque islands on social media. However, these seemingly innocent posts have triggered a diplomatic storm, with three Maldivian leaders expressing discontent with India and PM Modi’s controversial remarks.
The Unraveling Relations
The candid comments from Maldivian leaders have strained the relationship between the two nations. Simultaneously, the specter of China looms in the background, ready to exploit any discord between India and the Maldives. President Mohammed Mujeeb has officially given India until March 15 to pull its troops out, raising concerns about the future of their diplomatic ties.
Indian Military Presence in Maldives
India justifies its military presence in the Maldives by stating that its soldiers are aiding in humanitarian efforts and disaster relief. The nation has deployed helicopters and a drone to assist in maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, and medical evacuations. This cooperation dates back to 2010 when the first Indian helicopter and pilot team arrived in the Maldives during President Mohammed Nasheed’s term.
The Ultimatum
President Mujeeb, upon returning from his visit to China, has set the deadline for the withdrawal of Indian troops. Surprisingly, India has remained mum on this demand, leaving the diplomatic chessboard in a state of suspense.
How Many Indian Soldiers are Stationed in Maldives?
According to Indian officials, there are currently 77 soldiers stationed in the Maldives, along with 12 medical personnel from the armed forces. This military presence is integral to ensuring the safety and well-being of Maldivian citizens, as well as supporting the ongoing relief efforts.
China’s Growing Influence
The geopolitical significance of the Maldives cannot be overstated. Positioned strategically in the Indian Ocean, the archipelago serves as a vital sea route for trade, with nearly 80% of China’s oil imports passing through its waters. President Mujeeb’s pro-China stance has further heightened tensions, as he promised during his election campaign to reduce Indian military presence and strengthen ties with China.
The Inevitable Dependence
Maldives, with its five lakh population, heavily relies on India for essential commodities such as rice, vegetables, medicines, and humanitarian aid. Despite this, President Mujeeb’s pivot towards China raises concerns about the Maldives’ growing dependence on the Asian giant, potentially jeopardizing its security and sovereignty.
Navigating the Choppy Waters
As the diplomatic saga unfolds, the Maldives finds itself at the crossroads of balancing its dependence on India for essential needs and its newfound camaraderie with China. The ultimatum set by President Mujeeb has added a layer of complexity to the delicate diplomatic dance. The coming days will reveal whether India and the Maldives can navigate these choppy waters or if external influences will dictate the future of this crucial Indian Ocean nation.
