Malay, In a significant development in India-Maldives relations, India has agreed to withdraw its troops from the Indian Ocean archipelago, as confirmed by the Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu. This decision marks a notable shift in the Maldives’ foreign policy stance and its military ties with India.

According to Kashmir Media Service, the decision comes in the wake of President Muizzu’s successful campaign to revise the Maldives’ “India first” policy, a cornerstone of the nation’s foreign relations under previous administrations. Muizzu, who won the presidential election in September, had promised to remove the Indian military presence, consisting of approximately 75 personnel, as part of his electoral campaign.

President Muizzu announced the agreement with the Indian government during his remarks at the sidelines of the COP28 climate summit, where he had discussions with Indian officials. He also mentioned the establishment of a high-level committee to address issues related to development projects between the two nations.

A senior Indian government official in New Delhi confirmed that discussions took place regarding the withdrawal of troops, though India’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to the development.

This move signifies a reorientation of the Maldives’ foreign policy, which is seen as shifting slightly towards China, amid the ongoing regional influence competition between India and China. The troop withdrawal represents a delicate balance in the Maldives’ diplomatic relations and strategic interests in the Indian Ocean region.