To further deepen their partnership, leaders of India and Maldives have agreed to set up a core group to carefully study the usage of Indian platforms in the island nation. The announcement came following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the newly elected Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on the sidelines of the UN’s COP 28 climate summit in Dubai last Friday. The two leaders talked about various aspects of the bilateral relations between the two countries and in various sectors including economic relations, climate change as well as development cooperation.
What was the focus of the meeting?
The discussions held in Dubai have provided valuable insights into the current status of Indian platforms actively participating in Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations in the Maldives.
According to sources, “The focus of these deliberations was to carefully assess the sustained efficacy of these platforms, a recognition shared by both Indian and Maldivian authorities.”
Adding, “Integral to their bilateral development partnership, the importance of these platforms has been underscored, prompting ongoing dialogues on how to maintain and enhance their operational capabilities.”
The acknowledgment of the utility of Indian platforms in the Maldives was a focal point of discussions. “The significance of these platforms as a vital component of the bilateral development partnership between India and the Maldives was stressed. This recognition underscores the importance of maintaining and enhancing the operational capabilities of these platforms,” said sources quoted above.
Also, during the discussions, the parties recognized the need to assess the continued usefulness of the Indian platforms engaged in HADR activities. And, the discussions touched upon the establishment of a core group by both sides to delve into the details of ensuring the sustained operational efficiency of these platforms.
Ongoing talks are centered on devising strategies to keep these platforms operational. The collaborative efforts of the core group will be instrumental in outlining the specifics of how to move forward in this regard. It reflects a commitment from both sides to actively address and resolve any challenges that may impact the continued effectiveness of these platforms in HADR activities.
In conclusion, the discussions in Dubai highlighted the mutual recognition of the importance of Indian platforms in the Maldives engaged in HADR activities. The establishment of a core group signifies a commitment to addressing operational concerns and ensuring the continued success of these platforms in the realm of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Meanwhile …
Maldives President Muizzu on reaching Male from Dubai told media persons that India has decided to withdraw troops in Maldives.
Background
It has been reported previously in Financial Express Online that after becoming the new president of the Maldives, Mohamed Muizzu formally asked the Indian government to withdraw its defense personnel from the country. The statement from the Maldivian President’s office conveyed that President Muizzu made this request during his meeting with India’s Minister of Earth Sciences, Kiren Rijiju. Muizzu, who secured victory in the recent presidential elections, had pledged during his campaign to withdraw foreign military personnel, aligning himself with a pro-China stance and maintaining close ties with former Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen.
Discussions between Minister Rijiju and President Muizzu focused on the involvement of Indian military personnel in Maldives operations, particularly in medical evacuation and counter-drug trafficking initiatives. President Muizzu expressed gratitude for the role played by Indian helicopters and aircraft in facilitating medical evacuations, instilling confidence among international tourists, and effectively curbing drug trafficking operations.
Following the discussions, both leaders agreed to engage in talks to find practical and sustainable solutions. The goal is to ensure continued cooperation between the two nations through the strategic deployment of aerial platforms, emphasizing the welfare of the Maldivian populace. The strategic deployment of Indian military assets in the Maldives, especially in medical evacuation and counter-drug trafficking, highlights the collaborative efforts between the two nations.