Maldives requests India's troop withdrawal by March 15, intensifying diplomatic tensions

• Maldivian President Muizzu urges India to withdraw all military personnel by March 15
• Talks focus on the withdrawal of Indian troops and expediting India-backed development projects
• Strained bilateral relations with India prompt the Maldives to diversify ties with China and other countries

In a significant development, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has formally requested India to withdraw all its military personnel from the archipelago by March 15, intensifying the ongoing discussions between senior officials from both nations. The 12th meeting, held in Male, focused on addressing the issue of Indian troops deployed in the Maldives and expediting India-backed development projects. The talks come against the backdrop of strained relations since Muizzu's election, marked by measures to reduce the Maldives' dependence on India and a shift towards closer ties with China.

Muizzu's call for the withdrawal of 77 Indian military personnel, including helicopter and aircraft operators, reflects his campaign theme of "India out." The meeting also discussed agreements with China for healthcare expansion, including a 100-bed hospital, and agricultural growth to ensure food security, signaling the Maldives' effort to diversify its global partnerships.