The second batch of Indian military personnel in the Maldives departed from the Maldives on April 9, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has confirmed.
Indian military personnel have been stationed in different points across the Maldives, operating aircraft and helicopters provided by India. This includes bases in Gan, Addu City, Laamu Kadhdhoo, and Haa Dhaalu Hanimaadhoo. The withdrawal of foreign military personnel, particularly Indian troops, was a central point in Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's presidential campaign. Upon assuming power on November 17, Muizzu officially communicated the request to the Indian government.
High-level meetings were subsequently held between core groups of Maldives and India to discuss the withdrawal of the troops. In this regard, an agreement was reached between both countries to withdraw the first batch of Indian troops from the Maldives by March 10, and the last batch on May 10 this year.
Speaking to the residents of Addu City on Friday night, President Dr. Muizzu said the primary reason the people changed the government in the 2023 presidential election was to ensure the departure of Indian military personnel from the country. He emphasized that he began efforts to facilitate the process of repatriating the troops on his first day in office, in line with his campaign pledge.
The government had earlier communicated that Indian military personnel stationed in Gan island of Addu City had been repatriated earlier in March. At the Friday event, Dr. Muizzu said the troops were being withdrawn as per schedule.
"Only one platform remains. As agreed [between both countries], they too will leave [the Maldives] before May 10," the president said.
