India-Maldives Ties in Focus as Jaishankar Meets Maldivian Counterpart in Kampala

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a candid discussion with Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer in Kampala, addressing the ongoing high-level talks on the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation.

In a significant development, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in a candid conversation with his Maldivian counterpart, Moosa Zameer, in Kampala, Uganda. This meeting took place amidst the recent request from Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu for the withdrawal of all Indian military personnel from the island nation by March 15.

Discussions on Withdrawal of Indian Military Personnel

During their meeting, Minister Zameer highlighted the ongoing high-level discussions concerning the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. He emphasized Male's commitment to further strengthening and expanding bilateral cooperation between the two nations.

Bilateral Cooperation and Development Partnership

India remains steadfast in its commitment to the development partnership with the Maldives. Both countries are actively engaged in discussions to resolve the issue related to the presence of Indian troops. The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, reaffirmed India's dedication to its development agenda with the Maldives, including the implementation of various welfare projects.

High-Level Core Group Meetings

The first meeting of the High-Level Core Group between India and the Maldives was held in Male, primarily focusing on the contentious issue of Indian military presence. The next meeting of the Core Group is scheduled to take place in New Delhi early next month.

Finding Mutually Workable Solutions

Both sides are committed to finding mutually acceptable solutions to ensure the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms that provide essential humanitarian and medical evacuation services to the people of the Maldives.

India-Maldives Ties Under Scrutiny

The India-Maldives relationship has faced some strain since President Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, assumed office in November. He reiterated his election promise to evict Indian military personnel from the country.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Despite these challenges, the Maldives remains a key maritime neighbor of India in the Indian Ocean Region. The bilateral ties, particularly in defense and security, witnessed significant growth under the previous government in Male.

Infrastructure Development and Cooperation

In recent years, India has actively supported the Maldives through various initiatives. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Maldives last year and provided a fast patrol vessel and a landing craft to the island nation. Additionally, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih launched the India-funded Greater Male Connectivity Project (GMCP), a major infrastructure initiative in the Maldives.

India's Neighborhood First Policy

The Maldives has greatly benefited from India's Neighborhood First policy, which prioritizes regional cooperation and development.

Case of Jailed Indian Navy Personnel in Qatar

In a separate development, Jaiswal addressed the case of eight jailed former Indian Navy personnel in Qatar. He confirmed that consular access was recently granted to the Indian embassy in Doha, and the legal team is examining the plea aspect.

The discussions between India and the Maldives reflect the ongoing efforts to address complex issues and maintain strong bilateral ties. Both nations are committed to finding mutually beneficial solutions and fostering cooperation in various areas for the mutual benefit of their citizens.