The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the withdrawal of Bharatiya military personnel from the Maldives. This move was followed by the deputation of competent individuals to ensure the continuity of aviation services in the archipelago nation.
The MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated that both Bharat and the Maldives had engaged extensively to find the best way to continue operating aviation platforms. The withdrawal of military personnel and the deployment of competent Bharatiya technical personnel aim to maintain crucial medivac services for the people of the Maldives.
Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer highlighted that the defense relations between Maldives and Bharat transcend military personnel. Zameer, during his visit to Bharat, highlighted the collaborative efforts to foster peace in the Indian Ocean.
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He mentioned that platforms previously managed by Bharatiya military personnel would now be handled by civilians, underlining the joint commitment to regional security and stability. Zameer also expressed gratitude for Bharat’s role in development assistance and emergency response, which has significantly benefited the Maldivian people.
The withdrawal of Bharatiya military troops from the Maldives, scheduled for May 10, marks the transition from military to civilian management of two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft dedicated to humanitarian and medical evacuation services.
This transition is part of the ongoing discussions between Bharat and the Maldives, as outlined during the 4th meeting of the bilateral High-Level Core Group held on May 3. The request for withdrawal was formally made by the Maldivian government under Mohamed Muizzu’s leadership.
During discussions between the Bharatiya and Maldivian officials, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted Bharat’s significant contributions to the development of the Maldives. He emphasized Bharat’s role as a key provider of development assistance, ranging from infrastructure projects to medical evacuation and health facilities.
Jaishankar underscored the importance of mutual interests and reciprocal sensitivity in furthering bilateral ties, aligning with Bharat’s Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR vision for the Indian Ocean region.
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Coast guard personnel from Bharat, Maldives, and Sri Lanka participated in a trilateral exercise, ‘DOSTI 16’, earlier this year, aimed at addressing emerging maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean Region. Bangladesh participated as an observer in the exercise, reflecting the collaborative efforts among regional stakeholders to enhance maritime security.
Such exercises underscore the commitment of regional countries to address shared challenges and promote stability in the Indian Ocean.
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