Proceedings of the Maldivian parliament came to a halt on Sunday as members came to blows, with videos showing Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) fighting with ruling Peoples’ National Congress (PNC). Govt MPs stopped MDP from functioning. Opposition members were unhappy at speaker's stand on voting. The opposition blocked approval of 4 cabinet members. Watch in this report for more details!

Maldives' Parliament Ruckus: Maldives President faces impeachment threat

A 14-year-old Maldivian boy died on Saturday amid allegations that President Mohammed Muizzu denied permission for the use of an Indian Dornier aircraft that could have potentially saved his life.

Maldives: Boy dies after President Muizzu denies Indian helicopter airlift

In a huge setback to Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, oppostion party Maldives Democratic Party (MDP)'s candidate Adam Azim won the mayoral elections of Male amid the ongoing diplomatic standoff with India.

Maldives: President Muizzu's party loses mayoral polls amid diplomatic tensions with India

Indian diplomats discuss presence of Indian troops in Maldives, Indian govt yet to comment on meet

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu said on Saturday that China, largest external creditor to the country, has agreed to consider restructuring the repayment of loans taken by his country and the governments will initiate negotiations soon.

He told the media in Male after his return from a five-day high-profile state visit to China that he has directly appealed to Chinese President Xi Jinping to restructure the loans provided to the Maldives. He said that the loans were direct loans and that a technical team from China's Finance Ministry will travel to Maldives soon "to research and decide the way to offer a grace period in loan repayments over next five years, Maldives news portal Sun online reported."

"This will allow us great easements in loan repayment," he said. China is currently the Indian Ocean island nation's largest external creditor, comprising about 20 per cent of its total public debt, according to data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Data shows that Maldives owes China about USD 1.3 billion or more. The island country's risk of external debt distress has been classified as "high" by the IMF, considering its total GDP is around USD 4.9 billion, according to recent data.

There were widespread concerns about Chinese loans as Sri Lanka and Pakistan, the biggest recipients of Chinese investments and loans, faced the worst economic crisis. India bailed out Sri Lanka with about USD four billion in assistance after the island nation went bankrupt and different its external loan repayments in 2022.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu said on Saturday that China, largest external creditor to the country, has agreed to consider restructuring the repayment of loans taken by his country and the governments will initiate negotiations soon.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu said on Saturday that China, largest external creditor to the country, has agreed to consider restructuring the repayment of loans taken by his country and the governments will initiate negotiations soon. He told the media in Male after his return from a five-day high-profile state visit to China that he has directly appealed to Chinese President Xi Jinping to restructure the loans provided to the Maldives. He said that the loans were direct loans and that a technical team from China's Finance Ministry will travel to Maldives soon "to research and decide the way to offer a grace period in loan repayments over next five years, Maldives news portal Sun online reported." "This will allow us great easements in loan repayment," he said. China is currently the Indian Ocean island nation's largest external creditor, comprising about 20 per cent of its total public debt, according to data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Data shows that Maldives owes China about USD 1.3 billion or more. The island country's risk of external debt distress has been classified as "high" by the IMF, considering its total GDP is around USD 4.9 billion, according to recent data. There were widespread concerns about Chinese loans as Sri Lanka and Pakistan, the biggest recipients of Chinese investments and loans, faced the worst economic crisis. India bailed out Sri Lanka with about USD four billion in assistance after the island nation went bankrupt and different its external loan repayments in 2022.

China agrees to consider restructuring of loans to Maldives: President Muizzu

Maldives has proposed a deadline for India to withdraw its military presence in deployed in the Indian Ocean archipelagic nation, according to a report.&nbsp;

After his China visit, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his Beijing leanings, has formally asked that the Indian government withdraw its troops stationed in the Indian Ocean archipelagic nation before March 15, a senior official said on Sunday (Jan 14), as per news agency PTI reports.

The move comes nearly two months after Male sought the exit of the Indian military presence.

There are 88 Indian military personnel in the Maldives as per the latest government figures.

Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, the public policy secretary at the President’s Office, during a press briefing, said that Muizzu has asked India to withdraw its troops by March 15, news agency PTI said citing SunOnline newspaper reports.

“Indian military personnel cannot stay in the Maldives. This is the policy of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and that of this administration,” he said.

He also confirmed that the agenda of the meeting was to request the withdrawal of the military personnel by March 15.

A high-level core group has been set up by the two countries to negotiate the talks and the first meeting was held at the Foreign Ministry Headquarters in Male’ on Sunday morning. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/global-search-interest-for-indias-lakshadweep-skyrocket-after-pm-modis-visit-677924">Global search interest for India’s Lakshadweep witnesses record surge after PM Modi’s visit</a>

The meeting was also attended by Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar, according to the report.

Shortly after taking over the office on Nov 17, 2023, Muizzu, who is seen as a pro-China politician, asked India to remove its military forces from the Maldives claiming the Maldivians had given him a "strong mandate" to make this request to New Delhi.

The Maldivian President's office had then issued a statement saying, Male hopes "India will honour the democratic will of the people".

WATCH |&nbsp;Maldives President Muizzu's party loses key local poll&nbsp;amid diplomatic tensions with India

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&nbsp;

"The President noted that at the Presidential Election held in September, the Maldivian people had given him a strong mandate to make the request to India and expressed the hope that India will honour the democratic will of the people of the Maldives," the statement read.

<h2>‘Cannot bully us,’ Muizzu takes swipe at India after China visit</h2>

After returning from his visit to China, Muizzu indirectly took a jibe at India during a press conference saying, “We may be small, but that doesn’t give you the license to bully us.”&nbsp;

He then went on to announce plans to secure imports of necessary food items, medications, and consumables from other nations in order to reduce the country’s dependency on India

Muizzu also noted that the Indian Ocean "does not belong" to one particular country and that Maldives "is not in anyone's backyard".&nbsp;

“Though we have small islands in this ocean, we have a vast exclusive economic zone of 900,000 square kilometres. Maldives is one of the countries with the biggest share of this ocean. This ocean does not belong to a specific country,” he added.&nbsp;

This also came amidst a diplomatic row between India and Maldives got triggered after the sitting Maldivian deputy minister, along with other cabinet members and government officials, made disparaging references to Indian PM Narendra Modi's Lakshadweep visit and passed some derogatory remarks against Indians.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maldives has proposed a deadline for India to withdraw its military presence in deployed in the Indian Ocean archipelagic nation, according to a report. After his China visit, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his Beijing leanings, has formally asked that the Indian government withdraw its troops stationed in the Indian Ocean archipelagic nation before March 15, a senior official said on Sunday (Jan 14), as per news agency PTI reports.

Maldives has proposed a deadline for India to withdraw its military presence in deployed in the Indian Ocean archipelagic nation, according to a report. After his China visit, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his Beijing leanings, has formally asked that the Indian government withdraw its troops stationed in the Indian Ocean archipelagic nation before March 15, a senior official said on Sunday (Jan 14), as per news agency PTI reports. The move comes nearly two months after Male sought the exit of the Indian military presence. There are 88 Indian military personnel in the Maldives as per the latest government figures. Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, the public policy secretary at the President’s Office, during a press briefing, said that Muizzu has asked India to withdraw its troops by March 15, news agency PTI said citing SunOnline newspaper reports. “Indian military personnel cannot stay in the Maldives. This is the policy of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and that of this administration,” he said. He also confirmed that the agenda of the meeting was to request the withdrawal of the military personnel by March 15. A high-level core group has been set up by the two countries to negotiate the talks and the first meeting was held at the Foreign Ministry Headquarters in Male’ on Sunday morning. Also read: Global search interest for India’s Lakshadweep witnesses record surge after PM Modi’s visit The meeting was also attended by Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar, according to the report. Shortly after taking over the office on Nov 17, 2023, Muizzu, who is seen as a pro-China politician, asked India to remove its military forces from the Maldives claiming the Maldivians had given him a "strong mandate" to make this request to New Delhi. The Maldivian President's office had then issued a statement saying, Male hopes "India will honour the democratic will of the people". WATCH | Maldives President Muizzu's party loses key local poll amid diplomatic tensions with India × "The President noted that at the Presidential Election held in September, the Maldivian people had given him a strong mandate to make the request to India and expressed the hope that India will honour the democratic will of the people of the Maldives," the statement read. ‘Cannot bully us,’ Muizzu takes swipe at India after China visit After returning from his visit to China, Muizzu indirectly took a jibe at India during a press conference saying, “We may be small, but that doesn’t give you the license to bully us.” He then went on to announce plans to secure imports of necessary food items, medications, and consumables from other nations in order to reduce the country’s dependency on India Muizzu also noted that the Indian Ocean "does not belong" to one particular country and that Maldives "is not in anyone's backyard". “Though we have small islands in this ocean, we have a vast exclusive economic zone of 900,000 square kilometres. Maldives is one of the countries with the biggest share of this ocean. This ocean does not belong to a specific country,” he added. This also came amidst a diplomatic row between India and Maldives got triggered after the sitting Maldivian deputy minister, along with other cabinet members and government officials, made disparaging references to Indian PM Narendra Modi's Lakshadweep visit and passed some derogatory remarks against Indians. (With inputs from agencies)

After China visit, Maldives president Muizzu asks India to withdraw military personnel before March 15

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has taken a swipe at India, amid the ongoing diplomatic row after returning from his five-day trip to China. “We may be small, but that doesn’t give you the license to bully us," said Muizzu on Saturday (Jan 13).

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has taken a swipe at India, amid the ongoing diplomatic row after returning from his five-day trip to China. “We may be small, but that doesn’t give you the license to bully us," said Muizzu on Saturday (Jan 13). He also noted that the Indian Ocean "does not belong" to one particular country and that Maldives "is not in anyone's backyard". “Though we have small islands in this ocean, we have a vast exclusive economic zone of 900,000 square kilometres. Maldives is one of the countries with the biggest share of this ocean. This ocean does not belong to a specific country,” he added. Muizzu, widely regarded by many as an anti-India voice has further ignited the controversy, instead of attempting to defuse the situation. His statements alluding to India may not go down well with New Delhi which has made its indifference clear to Male. The Maldivian president taking a dig at India should not come as a surprise. A recent report by the European Union stated that the current ruling coalition of the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) and the People's National Congress (PNC) used anti-India sentiments to win the elections held last December. The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU- EOM) report on the Maldives presidential elections suggested that Muizzu's government was anti-India in its approach. "EU EOM observers noted instances of derogatory language, directed towards the president [former leader Ibrahim Mohamed Solih], on the side of PPM-PNC. Their campaign included anti-Indian sentiments, based on fears of Indian influences and anxiety regarding a presence of Indian military personnel inside the country," read the report. "This theme was subject to multiple online disinformation attempts," it added. Watch | Gravitas: Can India's political heat burn Maldives' govt? | Tourism body sends apology letter Muizzu's anti-India, pro-China stance The latest diplomatic row between India and Maldives is another example of the deep-seated anti-India sentiment that the ruling alliance harbours. After Indian PM Narendra Modi visited Lakshadweep, some social media users projected the Indian archipelago as an alternative tourism destination for Indians in place of Maldives. Also read | Maldives: Major setback for President Muizzu as oppn leader wins Male mayoral elections No mention or references to Maldives or any other island nation which is popular among tourists was made in PM Modi's posts regarding his visit to Lakshadweep. But still, the archipelago's beautiful scenery appeared to offend the Maldivian politicians. (With inputs from agencies)

'Cannot bully us': Maldives President Muizzu takes swipe at India after China visit

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate Adam Azim won the mayoral elections in Malé on Saturday (Jan 13). The election results are a major setback for Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who vacated the seat less than two months after his ascendency to the presidency.&nbsp;

In a post on X, MDP leader Abdulla Shahid said, "Kudos Adam Azim and to MDP Secretariat on winning the Malé Mayoral by-election! The capital city has said a categorical NO to President Muizzu and his policies - within just 58 days in office!"

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-india-thwarted-1988-coup-attempt-in-maldives-indian-army-veteran-vinod-bhatia-speaks-to-wion-678697">How India thwarted 1988 coup attempt in Maldives: Indian army veteran Vinod Bhatia speaks to WION</a>

Polling in the by-election took place from 8 am to 5 pm at 55 polling stations. Only&nbsp;17,000 out of the 54,680 eligible voters cast their ballots in the by-election, according to the Election Commission.&nbsp;

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Kudos <a href="https://twitter.com/adamazim?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adamazim</a> and to <a href="https://twitter.com/MDPSecretariat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MDPSecretariat</a> on winning the Male’ Mayoral by-election! 
 
The capital city has said a categorical NO to President Muizzu and his policies - within just 58 days in office!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AdamAzim4Mayor?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AdamAzim4Mayor</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vote4AdamAzim?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vote4AdamAzim</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaaneKuraane?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaaneKuraane</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FehiThanavasMale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FehiThanavasMale</a> <a href="https://t.co/YRfr80soPl">pic.twitter.com/YRfr80soPl</a>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1746178318234497400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The ruling People's National Congress (PNC) mayoral candidate Aisha Azima Shakoor was trailing Azim by a margin of 1,300 votes.&nbsp;

Azim, the younger brother of Colonel (Retired) Mohamed Nazim, the leader of Maldives National Party (MNP) and parliamentary representative for Dhangethi constituency, had run projects worth millions under his direct supervision as Maldives Transport and Contracting Company's (MTCC) chief during the MDP administration, according to reports.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas Plus: China the real mastermind behind India-Maldives diplomatic storm?

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Azim also previously headed other state companies including the State Trading Organization (STO) and Malé &nbsp;Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC).

Apart from the mayorship, councillors will be elected to three seats of the Malé &nbsp;City Council which became vacant when they quit to join the new government&nbsp;- Maafannu South, Central Henveiru, and Henveiru South.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate Adam Azim won the mayoral elections in Malé on Saturday (Jan 13). The election results are a major setback for Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who vacated the seat less than two months after his ascendency to the presidency.

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate Adam Azim won the mayoral elections in Malé on Saturday (Jan 13). The election results are a major setback for Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who vacated the seat less than two months after his ascendency to the presidency. In a post on X, MDP leader Abdulla Shahid said, "Kudos Adam Azim and to MDP Secretariat on winning the Malé Mayoral by-election! The capital city has said a categorical NO to President Muizzu and his policies - within just 58 days in office!" Also read: How India thwarted 1988 coup attempt in Maldives: Indian army veteran Vinod Bhatia speaks to WION Polling in the by-election took place from 8 am to 5 pm at 55 polling stations. Only 17,000 out of the 54,680 eligible voters cast their ballots in the by-election, according to the Election Commission. Kudos @adamazim and to @MDPSecretariat on winning the Male’ Mayoral by-election! The capital city has said a categorical NO to President Muizzu and his policies - within just 58 days in office!#AdamAzim4Mayor #Vote4AdamAzim #VaaneKuraane #FehiThanavasMale pic.twitter.com/YRfr80soPl — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) January 13, 2024 × The ruling People's National Congress (PNC) mayoral candidate Aisha Azima Shakoor was trailing Azim by a margin of 1,300 votes. Azim, the younger brother of Colonel (Retired) Mohamed Nazim, the leader of Maldives National Party (MNP) and parliamentary representative for Dhangethi constituency, had run projects worth millions under his direct supervision as Maldives Transport and Contracting Company's (MTCC) chief during the MDP administration, according to reports. Also watch | Gravitas Plus: China the real mastermind behind India-Maldives diplomatic storm? × Azim also previously headed other state companies including the State Trading Organization (STO) and Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC). Apart from the mayorship, councillors will be elected to three seats of the Malé City Council which became vacant when they quit to join the new government - Maafannu South, Central Henveiru, and Henveiru South. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives: Major setback for President Muizzu as oppn leader wins Male mayoral elections

Did the disinformation campaign help Mohamed Muizzu come to power in Maldives? According to a new report by the European Election Observation Mission, Maldives' ruling coalition made multiple disinformation attempts online, to whip up anti-India sentiment in the run-up to the elections.

Gravitas: Did Muizzu use lies to win his election and seize power?

China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago. The upgraded ties come amid the ongoing India-Maldives row and as New Delhi and Beijing tussle for influence.

The agreements, including ones on climate, agriculture and infrastructure, were signed during the Maldives' newly elected President Mohamed Muizzu's first state visit to China.&nbsp;

<h2>An old friend</h2>

Speaking at an event at China's Great Hall of the People, Chinese President Xi Jinping referred to Muizzu as "an old friend".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-govt-must-make-stronger-statement-to-repair-ties-with-india-says-maldives-oppo-leader-amid-row-678687">‘Maldives govt must make stronger statement to repair ties with India,’ says Maldives oppn leader</a>

As per media reports, he told the Maldivian President that "China and the Maldives' relations are facing a historic opportunity to carry forward the past and forge ahead into the future."

Xi, as per reports, "stressed that China respects and supports the Maldives in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions".

Watch |&nbsp;India-Maldives Row: Maldives faces heat over anti-India comments, proposes Muizzu's visit to India

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The two leaders, as per AFP, issued a joint communique detailing the "broad consensus" reached by them.

China, according to the statement published on state broadcaster CCTV, has vowed to "continue to provide support within its capacity to the Maldives side in areas of priority concern" including "infrastructure construction, medical care and health care, improvement of people's livelihoods, new energy sources, agriculture, and marine environmental protection".

The Maldivian President thanked Beijing for its "selfless assistance" in providing his country with development funds.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-imposes-five-year-anti-dumping-duty-on-chinese-products-report-678861">India imposes five-year anti-dumping duty on Chinese products: Report</a>

He also said that Beijing "supports the Maldives firmly in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity".

<h2>Muizzu's anti-India campaign</h2>

President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November. During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival India and its influence as a threat to sovereignty.

Since November, the Muizzu government has asked dozens of locally based Indian personnel to leave Maldives.&nbsp;

As per World Bank estimates, Maldives owes China about 43 per cent of its national debt which comes up to $3 billion.

(With inputs from agencies)

China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago.

China and Maldives on Wednesday 'upgraded' their bilateral ties and signed 20 key agreements, including one in which Beijing pledged to extend funding for infrastructure in the Indian Ocean archipelago. The upgraded ties come amid the ongoing India-Maldives row and as New Delhi and Beijing tussle for influence. The agreements, including ones on climate, agriculture and infrastructure, were signed during the Maldives' newly elected President Mohamed Muizzu's first state visit to China. An old friend Speaking at an event at China's Great Hall of the People, Chinese President Xi Jinping referred to Muizzu as "an old friend". Also read | ‘Maldives govt must make stronger statement to repair ties with India,’ says Maldives oppn leader As per media reports, he told the Maldivian President that "China and the Maldives' relations are facing a historic opportunity to carry forward the past and forge ahead into the future." Xi, as per reports, "stressed that China respects and supports the Maldives in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions". Watch | India-Maldives Row: Maldives faces heat over anti-India comments, proposes Muizzu's visit to India The two leaders, as per AFP, issued a joint communique detailing the "broad consensus" reached by them. China, according to the statement published on state broadcaster CCTV, has vowed to "continue to provide support within its capacity to the Maldives side in areas of priority concern" including "infrastructure construction, medical care and health care, improvement of people's livelihoods, new energy sources, agriculture, and marine environmental protection". The Maldivian President thanked Beijing for its "selfless assistance" in providing his country with development funds. Also read | India imposes five-year anti-dumping duty on Chinese products: Report He also said that Beijing "supports the Maldives firmly in safeguarding its national sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national dignity". Muizzu's anti-India campaign President Mohamed Muizzu took office in November. During his winning campaign, Muizzu had cast China's regional rival India and its influence as a threat to sovereignty. Since November, the Muizzu government has asked dozens of locally based Indian personnel to leave Maldives. As per World Bank estimates, Maldives owes China about 43 per cent of its national debt which comes up to $3 billion. (With inputs from agencies)

'Old friends' China and Maldives sign 20 key agreements amid row with India

The Maldives had proposed a visit by President Mohamed Muizzu&nbsp;to India later this month. President Muizzu, who assumed office in November of last year, has so far visited Turkey, the UAE, and China, since coming to power, marking a departure from the tradition of making India the first foreign destination for a newly-elected Maldivian president. The India visit was proposed before the current diplomatic crisis erupted over derogatory remarks by the ministers of the Muizzu government.

The President is currently on a week-long visit to China where he visited the Xiamen Free Trade Zone in Fujian province and engaged with senior officials of the China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC). Additionally, meetings were held with prominent Chinese political figures, including Zhou Zuyi, Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Party Committee, and Zhao Long, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Party Committee and Governor of Fujian Province. He will, later in the visit, meet Chinese President Xi Jinping as well.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-ex-vice-president-calls-current-india-maldives-row-very-sad-incident-677877">Exclusive | Ex-vice president calls current India-Maldives row ‘very sad’ incident</a>

President Muizzu's administration, which came to power on an anti-India plank, has called on India to withdraw its troops from the country even though&nbsp;it acknowledged the role of Indian assets in humanitarian efforts. The current govt in the Island nation has also not renewed the hydrographic agreement with India. This move, coupled with derogatory remarks made by Maldivian ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has led to a strain in bilateral ties.&nbsp;

The Maldivian government, in response to the controversial statements, has suspended the ministers involved in the derogatory comments incident &amp; distanced itself from those comments.

The bilateral relationship between India and the Maldives had been positive before the Muizzu government assumed power. India has consistently supported various assistance projects in the Maldives, especially during critical moments, such as the 1988 coup attempt and the 2004 Tsunami. India's swift response to the water crisis in Malé in December 2014 further solidified the ties.

New Delhi had&nbsp;also continued its support to the Maldives during the COVID-19 crisis by sending vaccines to the island nation. Additionally, India remains a key contributor to the training of the Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF), meeting a significant portion of their defence training requirements.

The Maldives had proposed a visit by President Mohamed Muizzu to India later this month. President Muizzu, who assumed office in November of last year, has so far visited Turkey, the UAE, and China, since coming to power, marking a departure from the tradition of making India the first foreign destination for a newly-elected Maldivian president.

The Maldives had proposed a visit by President Mohamed Muizzu to India later this month. President Muizzu, who assumed office in November of last year, has so far visited Turkey, the UAE, and China, since coming to power, marking a departure from the tradition of making India the first foreign destination for a newly-elected Maldivian president. The India visit was proposed before the current diplomatic crisis erupted over derogatory remarks by the ministers of the Muizzu government. The President is currently on a week-long visit to China where he visited the Xiamen Free Trade Zone in Fujian province and engaged with senior officials of the China Communications Construction Company Limited (CCCC). Additionally, meetings were held with prominent Chinese political figures, including Zhou Zuyi, Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Party Committee, and Zhao Long, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Party Committee and Governor of Fujian Province. He will, later in the visit, meet Chinese President Xi Jinping as well. Also read: Exclusive | Ex-vice president calls current India-Maldives row ‘very sad’ incident President Muizzu's administration, which came to power on an anti-India plank, has called on India to withdraw its troops from the country even though it acknowledged the role of Indian assets in humanitarian efforts. The current govt in the Island nation has also not renewed the hydrographic agreement with India. This move, coupled with derogatory remarks made by Maldivian ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has led to a strain in bilateral ties. The Maldivian government, in response to the controversial statements, has suspended the ministers involved in the derogatory comments incident & distanced itself from those comments. The bilateral relationship between India and the Maldives had been positive before the Muizzu government assumed power. India has consistently supported various assistance projects in the Maldives, especially during critical moments, such as the 1988 coup attempt and the 2004 Tsunami. India's swift response to the water crisis in Malé in December 2014 further solidified the ties. New Delhi had also continued its support to the Maldives during the COVID-19 crisis by sending vaccines to the island nation. Additionally, India remains a key contributor to the training of the Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF), meeting a significant portion of their defence training requirements.

Exclusive: Maldives had proposed President Muizzu's India visit before current crisis erupted

A Maldives leader, parliamentarian no less, has demanded President Mohamed Muizzu's ouster from his post as the country battles a diplomatic row with longstanding ally India. Ali Azim, Parliamentary Minority Leader in the Maldivian parliament has made this demand publicly, taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Though he does not explicitly mention India in his post, he has indicated that a vote of no-confidence be held against President Muizzu.

"We, d Democrats, r dedicated to upholding d stability of the nation's foreign policy n preventing d isolation of any neighboring country. R u willing to take all necessary steps to remove prez @MMuizzu &nbsp;from power? Is @MDPSecretariat prepared to initiate a vote of no confidence?" says Azim's post in English.

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We, d Democrats, r dedicated to upholding d stability of the nation's foreign policy n preventing d isolation of any neighboring country. 
R u willing to take all necessary steps to remove prez <a href="https://twitter.com/MMuizzu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MMuizzu</a> from power? Is <a href="https://twitter.com/MDPSecretariat?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MDPSecretariat</a> prepared to initiate a vote of no confidence?
— 𝐀𝐥𝐢 𝐀𝐳𝐢𝐦 (@aliaazim) <a href="https://twitter.com/aliaazim/status/1744219091752329589?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2024</a></blockquote>
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India and the Maldives, traditional allies with the former being a major benefactor of the latter, are going through a phase of strained bilateral relations. The tensions came to the fore after Maldivian ministers' derogatory remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media a few days ago. Since all this has happened under the presidency of Muizzu who is perceived to be leaning towards China, the entire affair has assumed grave political connotations.

Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-ex-vice-president-calls-current-india-maldives-row-very-sad-incident-677877">Exclusive: Ex-vice president calls current India-Maldives row ‘very sad’ incident</a>

Just a few days ago, Maldivian deputy minister of Youth Empowerment Mariyam Shiuna took to X to post a disrespectful reference to PM Narendra Modi who visited Lakshadweep Islands, an Indian archipelago close to the Maldives which itself is an archipelago nation.

Watch | Maldives-India Row: Maldives MP urges parliament summoning for foreign &amp; suspended ministers

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PM Modi was on a tour of the Lakshadweep Islands, a trip which was seen to have a political signal to the Maldives.

Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-maldives-proposes-president-muizzus-visit-to-india-678022">Exclusive: Maldives had proposed President Muizzu's India visit before current crisis erupted</a>

But Maldivian ministers faced widespread flak and ridicule online for personal attacks on PM Modi and even the Maldivian government distanced itself from the disrespectful posts. Maldives has even suspended the ministers giving them a stern warning.

“All government officials responsible for the comments have been suspended from their post effective immediately,” Ibrahim Khaleel, spokesperson for the president of Maldives said earlier.

The controversial posts have been deleted but the screenshots are being circulated widely online keeping the issue alive.

The personal attack in language not even remotely parliamentary created anger among the public in India with many demanding to 'Boycott' Maldives which is a tropical holiday destination for Indian tourists. A large part of Maldives' revenue comes from its tourism industry.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Maldives leader, parliamentarian no less, has demanded President Mohamed Muizzu's ouster from his post as the country battles a diplomatic row with longstanding ally India.

A Maldives leader, parliamentarian no less, has demanded President Mohamed Muizzu's ouster from his post as the country battles a diplomatic row with longstanding ally India. Ali Azim, Parliamentary Minority Leader in the Maldivian parliament has made this demand publicly, taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter). Though he does not explicitly mention India in his post, he has indicated that a vote of no-confidence be held against President Muizzu. "We, d Democrats, r dedicated to upholding d stability of the nation's foreign policy n preventing d isolation of any neighboring country. R u willing to take all necessary steps to remove prez @MMuizzu from power? Is @MDPSecretariat prepared to initiate a vote of no confidence?" says Azim's post in English. We, d Democrats, r dedicated to upholding d stability of the nation's foreign policy n preventing d isolation of any neighboring country. R u willing to take all necessary steps to remove prez @MMuizzu from power? Is @MDPSecretariat prepared to initiate a vote of no confidence? — 𝐀𝐥𝐢 𝐀𝐳𝐢𝐦 (@aliaazim) January 8, 2024 × India and the Maldives, traditional allies with the former being a major benefactor of the latter, are going through a phase of strained bilateral relations. The tensions came to the fore after Maldivian ministers' derogatory remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media a few days ago. Since all this has happened under the presidency of Muizzu who is perceived to be leaning towards China, the entire affair has assumed grave political connotations. Read | Exclusive: Ex-vice president calls current India-Maldives row ‘very sad’ incident Just a few days ago, Maldivian deputy minister of Youth Empowerment Mariyam Shiuna took to X to post a disrespectful reference to PM Narendra Modi who visited Lakshadweep Islands, an Indian archipelago close to the Maldives which itself is an archipelago nation. Watch | Maldives-India Row: Maldives MP urges parliament summoning for foreign & suspended ministers × PM Modi was on a tour of the Lakshadweep Islands, a trip which was seen to have a political signal to the Maldives. Read | Exclusive: Maldives had proposed President Muizzu's India visit before current crisis erupted But Maldivian ministers faced widespread flak and ridicule online for personal attacks on PM Modi and even the Maldivian government distanced itself from the disrespectful posts. Maldives has even suspended the ministers giving them a stern warning. “All government officials responsible for the comments have been suspended from their post effective immediately,” Ibrahim Khaleel, spokesperson for the president of Maldives said earlier. The controversial posts have been deleted but the screenshots are being circulated widely online keeping the issue alive. The personal attack in language not even remotely parliamentary created anger among the public in India with many demanding to 'Boycott' Maldives which is a tropical holiday destination for Indian tourists. A large part of Maldives' revenue comes from its tourism industry. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives leader demands ouster of President Muizzu over strained ties with India

Has Maldives become a Chinese stooge? Why has the Maldives' President Mohamed Muizzu broken a long standing diplomatic tradition by visiting China first instead of India? Is Muizzu signalling an anti-India policy?

Gravitas: Has Maldives become a Chinese stooge?| Is Muizzu signalling an anti-India policy?

The Maldivian envoy to India was on Monday summoned to the external affairs ministry and conveyed strong concerns over disparaging social media posts against Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three now-suspended-ministers as the backlash over the remarks continued for the second day.&nbsp;

In Male, the Maldivian government conveyed to Indian High Commissioner Munu Muhawar that the remarks against Modi do not represent its views. Deputy ministers in the youth ministry Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid were suspended on Sunday by the government of President Mohamed Muizzu over their posts.&nbsp;

The Maldivian President is in China on a week-long trip. Though Maldivian media reported that Muhawar was summoned to the foreign ministry, the Indian high commission said he had a "pre-arranged" meeting with Ambassador at Large Dr Ali Naseer Mohamed."&nbsp;

"High Commissioner Munu Mahawar had a pre-arranged meeting with Dr Ali Naseer Mohamed, Ambassador at Large, at MoFA, Maldives, today to discuss bilateral issues," it said in a post on 'X'.&nbsp;

In New Delhi, sources said Maldivian envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb was summoned to the external affairs ministry and was conveyed its strong concerns over the social media posts against PM Modi.&nbsp;

As the row escalated, India's leading travel platform EaseMyTrip said it has suspended bookings to the Maldives.&nbsp;

The three deputy ministers used disparaging comments against Modi for his post on 'X' following his visit to Lakshadweep, inferring that it was an attempt to project the Union Territory as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives.&nbsp;

The remarks by the ministers have drawn flak in India, with many celebrities urging people on X to explore domestic tourist destinations instead of going to the Maldives.&nbsp;

Many prominent personalities including Bollywood stars Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar and cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar, appealed to people on Sunday to explore "Indian islands" and coastal destinations.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Maldivian foreign ministry on Sunday said the government is aware of "derogatory remarks" on social media platforms against foreign leaders and that the personal views do not represent its position."&nbsp;

The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives," the Maldivian foreign ministry said in a statement on Sunday.&nbsp;

Former Maldivian Vice President Ahmed Adeeb said President Muizzu should have reached out to Prime Minister Modi and sorted out the diplomatic crisis.&nbsp;

He described the derogatory comments against the Indian leader as "unacceptable."&nbsp;

"I believe that this is something which should have never happened, which is not acceptable in any way. I believe that the Maldives government should have reacted more quickly with stern actions and reached out to India so that they should have never let this blow out for a big diplomatic crisis," he told PTI.&nbsp;

Leading Maldivian political leaders too slammed the Muizzu government over the controversy.

Former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih condemned the use of "hateful language" against India by Maldivian government officials on social media.&nbsp;

"India has always been a good friend to Maldives and we must not allow such callous remarks to negatively impact the age-old friendship between our two countries," he said.

The Maldivian envoy to India was on Monday summoned to the external affairs ministry and conveyed strong concerns over disparaging social media posts against Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three now-suspended-ministers as the backlash over the remarks continued for the second day.

The Maldivian envoy to India was on Monday summoned to the external affairs ministry and conveyed strong concerns over disparaging social media posts against Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three now-suspended-ministers as the backlash over the remarks continued for the second day. In Male, the Maldivian government conveyed to Indian High Commissioner Munu Muhawar that the remarks against Modi do not represent its views. Deputy ministers in the youth ministry Malsha Shareef, Mariyam Shiuna and Abdulla Mahzoom Majid were suspended on Sunday by the government of President Mohamed Muizzu over their posts. The Maldivian President is in China on a week-long trip. Though Maldivian media reported that Muhawar was summoned to the foreign ministry, the Indian high commission said he had a "pre-arranged" meeting with Ambassador at Large Dr Ali Naseer Mohamed." "High Commissioner Munu Mahawar had a pre-arranged meeting with Dr Ali Naseer Mohamed, Ambassador at Large, at MoFA, Maldives, today to discuss bilateral issues," it said in a post on 'X'. In New Delhi, sources said Maldivian envoy Ibrahim Shaheeb was summoned to the external affairs ministry and was conveyed its strong concerns over the social media posts against PM Modi. As the row escalated, India's leading travel platform EaseMyTrip said it has suspended bookings to the Maldives. The three deputy ministers used disparaging comments against Modi for his post on 'X' following his visit to Lakshadweep, inferring that it was an attempt to project the Union Territory as an alternative tourist destination to the Maldives. The remarks by the ministers have drawn flak in India, with many celebrities urging people on X to explore domestic tourist destinations instead of going to the Maldives. Many prominent personalities including Bollywood stars Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan and Akshay Kumar and cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar, appealed to people on Sunday to explore "Indian islands" and coastal destinations. In a statement, the Maldivian foreign ministry on Sunday said the government is aware of "derogatory remarks" on social media platforms against foreign leaders and that the personal views do not represent its position." The government of Maldives is aware of derogatory remarks on social media platforms against foreign leaders and high-ranking individuals. These opinions are personal and do not represent the views of the government of Maldives," the Maldivian foreign ministry said in a statement on Sunday. Former Maldivian Vice President Ahmed Adeeb said President Muizzu should have reached out to Prime Minister Modi and sorted out the diplomatic crisis. He described the derogatory comments against the Indian leader as "unacceptable." "I believe that this is something which should have never happened, which is not acceptable in any way. I believe that the Maldives government should have reacted more quickly with stern actions and reached out to India so that they should have never let this blow out for a big diplomatic crisis," he told PTI. Leading Maldivian political leaders too slammed the Muizzu government over the controversy. Former Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih condemned the use of "hateful language" against India by Maldivian government officials on social media. "India has always been a good friend to Maldives and we must not allow such callous remarks to negatively impact the age-old friendship between our two countries," he said.

India-Maldives diplomatic row: Maldivian envoy summoned

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has claimed that the Indian government agreed to withdraw its armed forces from the Indian Ocean territory, as he asserted to have kept its poll promise of reducing the Indian military’s presence in the region.

"In the discussions we had, the Indian government has agreed to remove Indian soldiers," Muizzu told reporters.

"We also agreed to set up a high-level committee to solve issues related to development projects."

Muizzu’s remarks came days after his engagements with the Indian officials on the sidelines of the COP28 climate summit in Dubai.

However, the Indian government has yet to confirm the development.

<h2>Muizzu's bid to change&nbsp; Maldives’ 'India first'&nbsp;policy</h2>

Muizzu’s election campaign had primarily focussed on changing Maldives’ “India first” policy and removing the presence of a small contingent of 75 Indian military.

The British-educated civil engineer, who is known for his pro-China leanings, had accused the previous Solih’s administration of kowtowing to India.

Muizzu had earlier argued that the presence of Indian troops could put the Maldives at risk in the event of any tensions between India and China along their Himalayan border.

"Maldives is too small to get entangled with this global power struggle. We will not get entangled into this," he said.

After winning the election, he also told BBC in October that he would review every agreement the Maldives signed with India.

<h2>India, China tussle for influence over Maldives&nbsp;</h2>

"We don't know what's in there. Even in Parliament, some of the MPs during the debates said that they didn't know what was in there. I am sure we will find it out," he was quoted as saying.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/told-india-to-remove-military-troops-from-maldives-president-elect-mohamed-muizzu-650390">Told India to remove troops from Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu</a>

India had always considered Maldives, with its population of about 380,000 Sunni Muslims, to be within its sphere of influence. However, it has grown wary of China’s expanding footprint in the region.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maldives-president-elect-mohamed-muizzu-says-chinese-troops-will-not-replace-indians-658772">Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu says Chinese troops will not replace Indians</a>

New Delhi has a history of entanglements with Male, including the deployment of soldiers to thwart a 1988 coup attempt.

Muizzu, a former housing minister, is credited with implementing Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, including the construction of 7,000 apartments and a landmark bridge linking the capital island Male with the nearby airport island of Hulhule.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has claimed that the Indian government agreed to withdraw its armed forces from the Indian Ocean territory, as he asserted to have kept its poll promise of reducing the Indian military’s presence in the region.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has claimed that the Indian government agreed to withdraw its armed forces from the Indian Ocean territory, as he asserted to have kept its poll promise of reducing the Indian military’s presence in the region. "In the discussions we had, the Indian government has agreed to remove Indian soldiers," Muizzu told reporters. "We also agreed to set up a high-level committee to solve issues related to development projects." Muizzu’s remarks came days after his engagements with the Indian officials on the sidelines of the COP28 climate summit in Dubai. However, the Indian government has yet to confirm the development. Muizzu's bid to change Maldives’ 'India first' policy Muizzu’s election campaign had primarily focussed on changing Maldives’ “India first” policy and removing the presence of a small contingent of 75 Indian military. The British-educated civil engineer, who is known for his pro-China leanings, had accused the previous Solih’s administration of kowtowing to India. Muizzu had earlier argued that the presence of Indian troops could put the Maldives at risk in the event of any tensions between India and China along their Himalayan border. "Maldives is too small to get entangled with this global power struggle. We will not get entangled into this," he said. After winning the election, he also told BBC in October that he would review every agreement the Maldives signed with India. India, China tussle for influence over Maldives "We don't know what's in there. Even in Parliament, some of the MPs during the debates said that they didn't know what was in there. I am sure we will find it out," he was quoted as saying. Also read | Told India to remove troops from Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu India had always considered Maldives, with its population of about 380,000 Sunni Muslims, to be within its sphere of influence. However, it has grown wary of China’s expanding footprint in the region. Also read | Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu says Chinese troops will not replace Indians New Delhi has a history of entanglements with Male, including the deployment of soldiers to thwart a 1988 coup attempt. Muizzu, a former housing minister, is credited with implementing Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, including the construction of 7,000 apartments and a landmark bridge linking the capital island Male with the nearby airport island of Hulhule.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu claims India agreed to remove its troops from islands

Vice President of Maldives Hussain Mohamed Latheef has pledges unwavering support to newly-elected President Mohamed Muizzu. The reassurance comes after the former Abdulla Yameen broke away from ruling Progressive Party of Maldives.

Maldives: Cracks emerge in PPM; Abdulla Yameen resigns from the party | Race to Power

Abdulla Yameen, the former president of the Maldives, will create a new political party, according to his attorney. This will provide a significant blow to his successor's ruling party ahead of the legislative elections.

Maldives leader faces rift days after taking power

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Saturday (Nov 18) formally requested India to withdraw troops from his country, fulfilling an election pledge on his first day in office.

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu on Saturday (Nov 18) formally requested India to withdraw troops from his country, fulfilling an election pledge on his first day in office. In a meeting with India's Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju, President Muizzu asked New Delhi to recall its military personnel to operate three gifted aircraft patrolling the maritime territory. "The President formally made the request when he met the Minister of Earth Sciences of India Kiren Rijiju, at the President’s Office earlier today," a statement from Muizzu's office said. The statement did not mention the timeline or the number of personnel to be withdrawn. Privileged to call on President H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed greetings from Hon’ble PM @NarendraModi and reiterated India’s commitment to further strengthen the substantive bilateral cooperation and robust people-to-people ties. pic.twitter.com/nFa95QD9ES — Kiren Rijiju (@KirenRijiju) November 18, 2023 × Rijiju, who attended Muizzu's inaugural ceremony on Friday, said in a post on X, "Privileged to call on President H.E. Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Conveyed greetings from Hon’ble PM Narendra Modi and reiterated India’s commitment to further strengthen the substantive bilateral cooperation and robust people-to-people ties." Muizzu acknowledges contribution of Indian troops According to sources, Muizzu (during his meeting with Rijiju) acknowledged the contribution of Indian military helicopters and aircraft for the medical evacuation of Maldivian citizens and appreciated their role in monitoring and combating drug trafficking. The sources added that Male and New Delhi would discuss workable solutions for continued cooperation through the use of these platforms as this serves the interests of the people of Maldives. Muizzu has said repeatedly that his country will not have the presence of military personnel of another country. "When it comes to our security, I will draw a red line. The Maldives will respect the red lines of other countries too," the president said on Saturday. Earlier this week, Muizzu told the news agency AFP that his intention was not to upend the regional balance by replacing the Indian military with Chinese troops. In October, he said that he would work to return Indian military personnel "as soon as possible", but also emphasised his commitment to stronger investment ties with both India and China to foster growth. (With inputs from agencies)

Maldives President Muizzu formally asks India to withdraw troops

The Maldives's incoming president Mohamed Muizzu has vowed to expel Indian troops after taking office later this week, but told AFP he does not want to redraw regional balance by bringing in Chinese forces instead.

"Maldives is too small to be entangled in geopolitical rivalry," the president-elect said in an interview on the strategically located Indian Ocean archipelago. "I am not very much interested to engage the Maldivian foreign policy in this."

Muizzu's election success in September hinged on a sustained campaign against India's&nbsp; political and economic clout in the Maldives, and specifically his pledge to eject Indian forces.

But he said he will not allow China -- or any other nation -- to replace them, and dismissed reports of him being closer to Beijing. He insists he is only "pro-Maldives".

"We are going to work together with all the countries, India, China and all other countries as well," the 45-year-old leader, who will be sworn in on Friday, said at his home in the capital Male.

Known for its pristine beaches and secluded resorts as one of the most expensive holiday destinations in South Asia, the Maldives has also become a geopolitical hotspot.

Global east-west shipping lanes pass the nation's chain of 1,192 tiny coral islands, scattered around 800 kilometres (500 miles) across the equator.

Muizzu was regarded as a proxy of pro-China&nbsp;former president Abdulla Yameen, who had shifted the country heavily into Beijing's orbit till his 2018 defeat.

<h2>Regional rivalry</h2>

Muizzu said he hoped to begin formal negotiations with New Delhi on the withdrawal of an estimated 50 to 75 Indian personnel, a sensitive campaign issue.

"The people of the Maldives did not vote for me to allow any military presence in the Maldives," the British-educated civil engineer added.

"That is why we are&nbsp;talking with the Indian government to remove them, and I'm sure we can do that in a peaceful and democratic manner."

Muizzu said his mandate was to remove a unit of Indian security personnel, deployed to operate three aircraft gifted to the Maldives to patrol its vast maritime territory.

"I'm not asking for the Indian troops to leave our country to make room for any other country to bring their military troops here," he said.

Regional power India had considered the Maldives with its population of about 380,000 Sunni Muslims to be within its sphere of influence, but had been worried about China's expanding footprint during Yameen's administration.

New Delhi has a history of entanglements with Male, including the deployment of soldiers to thwart a 1988 coup attempt.

<h2>Maldives first</h2>

"For the Maldives, it is very important that we put our interests first... also we want to work together with all the countries, have a good friendly relationship, cordial, candid relationship," Muizzu said.

The party nominated Muizzu after Yameen was barred from running for office following a criminal conviction for&nbsp;corruption during his five-year term when the country saw a spurt of Chinese-funded construction.

Muizzu, a former housing minister, is credited with implementing Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, including the construction of 7,000 apartments and a landmark bridge linking the capital island Male with the nearby airport island of Hulhule.

"We are situated in a very strategic location, in which many of the sea lanes of communication go across our country," he said, adding that he was inviting foreign investment to develop ports and logistics as well as set up a tax-free zone.

Muizzu said he was banking on completing the ambitious expansion of the international airport, in a bid to jump-start an economy that was hit by heavy debt and a decline in tourism during the Covid-19 pandemic.

He was hopeful of filling "funding gaps" for the nearly $1 billion expansion of the Velana International Airport, which he sees as a gateway to attracting more foreign direct investment.

<h2>Climate change threat</h2>

But the country's public and government-guaranteed debt was about $7 billion, or 113.5 per cent of the GDP at the end of last year, according to official data.

"When we look at the economy, there's a huge debt that needs to be addressed. The level of confidence of investors to come and invest in Maldives is really low," Muizzu said.

He said he was keen on expanding ports and harbour-related services to increase domestic earnings, while also looking for debt-free financing for his ambitious economic expansion plans.

In addition, Muizzu said he was seeking up to $500 million in international funding to protect beaches and coral as warming and rising waters threaten his low-lying nation.

Eighty per cent of the Maldives is less than a metre (three feet) above sea level, making it one of the countries most threatened by rising sea levels linked to climate change.

The president-elect quoted a report that said 60 per cent of corals had been bleached by rising water temperatures.

"Every coral has value, every waterway that is contaminated has a value," he said, insisting his country must be compensated for "every fish that dies due to global warming".

The Maldives's incoming president Mohamed Muizzu has vowed to expel Indian troops after taking office later this week, but told AFP he does not want to redraw regional balance by bringing in Chinese forces instead.

The Maldives's incoming president Mohamed Muizzu has vowed to expel Indian troops after taking office later this week, but told AFP he does not want to redraw regional balance by bringing in Chinese forces instead. "Maldives is too small to be entangled in geopolitical rivalry," the president-elect said in an interview on the strategically located Indian Ocean archipelago. "I am not very much interested to engage the Maldivian foreign policy in this." Muizzu's election success in September hinged on a sustained campaign against India's political and economic clout in the Maldives, and specifically his pledge to eject Indian forces. But he said he will not allow China -- or any other nation -- to replace them, and dismissed reports of him being closer to Beijing. He insists he is only "pro-Maldives". "We are going to work together with all the countries, India, China and all other countries as well," the 45-year-old leader, who will be sworn in on Friday, said at his home in the capital Male. Known for its pristine beaches and secluded resorts as one of the most expensive holiday destinations in South Asia, the Maldives has also become a geopolitical hotspot. Global east-west shipping lanes pass the nation's chain of 1,192 tiny coral islands, scattered around 800 kilometres (500 miles) across the equator. Muizzu was regarded as a proxy of pro-China former president Abdulla Yameen, who had shifted the country heavily into Beijing's orbit till his 2018 defeat. Regional rivalry Muizzu said he hoped to begin formal negotiations with New Delhi on the withdrawal of an estimated 50 to 75 Indian personnel, a sensitive campaign issue. "The people of the Maldives did not vote for me to allow any military presence in the Maldives," the British-educated civil engineer added. "That is why we are talking with the Indian government to remove them, and I'm sure we can do that in a peaceful and democratic manner." Muizzu said his mandate was to remove a unit of Indian security personnel, deployed to operate three aircraft gifted to the Maldives to patrol its vast maritime territory. "I'm not asking for the Indian troops to leave our country to make room for any other country to bring their military troops here," he said. Regional power India had considered the Maldives with its population of about 380,000 Sunni Muslims to be within its sphere of influence, but had been worried about China's expanding footprint during Yameen's administration. New Delhi has a history of entanglements with Male, including the deployment of soldiers to thwart a 1988 coup attempt. Maldives first "For the Maldives, it is very important that we put our interests first... also we want to work together with all the countries, have a good friendly relationship, cordial, candid relationship," Muizzu said. The party nominated Muizzu after Yameen was barred from running for office following a criminal conviction for corruption during his five-year term when the country saw a spurt of Chinese-funded construction. Muizzu, a former housing minister, is credited with implementing Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, including the construction of 7,000 apartments and a landmark bridge linking the capital island Male with the nearby airport island of Hulhule. "We are situated in a very strategic location, in which many of the sea lanes of communication go across our country," he said, adding that he was inviting foreign investment to develop ports and logistics as well as set up a tax-free zone. Muizzu said he was banking on completing the ambitious expansion of the international airport, in a bid to jump-start an economy that was hit by heavy debt and a decline in tourism during the Covid-19 pandemic. He was hopeful of filling "funding gaps" for the nearly $1 billion expansion of the Velana International Airport, which he sees as a gateway to attracting more foreign direct investment. Climate change threat But the country's public and government-guaranteed debt was about $7 billion, or 113.5 per cent of the GDP at the end of last year, according to official data. "When we look at the economy, there's a huge debt that needs to be addressed. The level of confidence of investors to come and invest in Maldives is really low," Muizzu said. He said he was keen on expanding ports and harbour-related services to increase domestic earnings, while also looking for debt-free financing for his ambitious economic expansion plans. In addition, Muizzu said he was seeking up to $500 million in international funding to protect beaches and coral as warming and rising waters threaten his low-lying nation. Eighty per cent of the Maldives is less than a metre (three feet) above sea level, making it one of the countries most threatened by rising sea levels linked to climate change. The president-elect quoted a report that said 60 per cent of corals had been bleached by rising water temperatures. "Every coral has value, every waterway that is contaminated has a value," he said, insisting his country must be compensated for "every fish that dies due to global warming".

Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu says Chinese troops will not replace Indians

Incoming Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu said on Friday (Oct 27) that his country intends to be fully independent and will ask Indian troops stationed on the Island to leave.

Incoming Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu said on Friday (Oct 27) that his country intends to be fully independent and will ask Indian troops stationed on the Island to leave. Speaking to the news agency Bloomberg, Muizzu said, "It happens to be Indian foreign military presence here.” Muizzu added that he had already begun negotiations with New Delhi on removing its military presence, calling those talks “very successful already.” “We want a bilateral relationship that’s mutually beneficial,” he said and pointed out that Indian soldiers will not be replaced by troops from other countries 'Will not allow any other country to bring their troops here' Around 70 Indian military personnel have been maintaining New Delhi-sponsored radar stations and surveillance aircraft in Maldives. Muizzu, who is backed by a coalition known to be close to China, also told Bloomberg that the removal of Indian military personnel in no way indicated that he was going to allow China or "any other country to bring their military troops here." “We want assistance, cooperation with all the countries,” Muizzu added. His victory in the recently concluded election extends the tug-of-war between India and China for influence over the Indian Ocean. Successive governments have tilted either toward India or China. The Indian government said last week that it intends to work with the new Maldives government. “We look forward to constructively engaging with the incoming administration and discussing ways to enhance our relationship further,” Indian foreign ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi told reporters. In the last five years, New Delhi carried out 500 medical evacuations saving 523 Maldivian lives, Bagchi added, reiterating India’s assistance to the island. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian troops need to leave Maldives, they will not be replaced by troops from other nations: Muizzu

President-elect of Maldives Mohamed Muizzu has said that his country has started negotiations with India to remove its military presence. Removing Indian troops was a key campaign pledge by Muizzu, who ousted President Ibrahim Solih.

Indian troops in Maldives asked to leave by President-elect | WION Dispatch

Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his strong China leanings, has reportedly told India to remove its&nbsp;troops from the country.

Speaking to BBC on Sunday (Oct 22), Muizzu, who won elections last month and is to be sworn in later in November, said&nbsp;he met Indian ambassador Munu Mahawar a few days after he won the elections and "told him very clearly that every single Indian military personnel here should be removed".

Mohamed Muizzu’s Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) fought this year’s election on the claims that his outgoing predecessor Ibrahim Mohamed Solih allowed India an unchecked presence in the Indian Ocean archipelago.

Muizzu has repeatedly claimed that under Solih’s administration, Maldives’ sovereignty was threatened by the Indian military personnel on the island—a rallying point of the party's years-long “India out” strategy.

<h2>Why are Indian troops in the Maldives, and how many?</h2>

It is currently unknown how many Indian troops are there in Maldives. In 2021, the Maldivian defence force claimed that said around 75 Indian military personnel were based in the country to operate and maintain the Indian aircraft.

Muizzu argues that the presence of Indian troops could put the Maldives at risk in the event of any tensions between India and China along their Himalayan border.

"Maldives is too small to get entangled with this global power struggle. We will not get entangled into this," he said.

India has provided about $2 billion in development assistance to the country and donated two helicopters to assist in the rescue of people stranded or faced with calamities at sea.

It was the gifting of helicopters to Maldives that fuelled the 'India out' campaign.

He also told BBC that he would review every agreement the Maldives signed with India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maldives-president-elect-muizzu-vows-to-remove-indian-military-presence-on-first-day-in-office-642083">Maldives President-elect Muizzu vows to remove Indian military presence</a>

"We don't know what's in there. Even in Parliament, some of the MPs during the debates said that they didn't know what was in there. I am sure we will find it out," he was quoted as saying.

<h2>Origins of Muizzu’s pro-China leanings</h2>

It is argued that Muizzu’s China leanings stem from significant Chinese loans received by the Maldives during the previous PPM government’s tenure.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-china-winding-down-some-belt-and-road-initiative-projects-650361">Is China winding down some BRI investments?</a>

These loans have led to closer economic ties between the Maldives and China, including infrastructure projects and investments in the country.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his strong China leanings, has reportedly told India to remove its troops from the country. Speaking to BBC on Sunday (Oct 22), Muizzu, who won elections last month and is to be sworn in later in November, said he met Indian ambassador Munu Mahawar a few days after he won the elections and "told him very clearly that every single Indian military personnel here should be removed".

Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his strong China leanings, has reportedly told India to remove its troops from the country. Speaking to BBC on Sunday (Oct 22), Muizzu, who won elections last month and is to be sworn in later in November, said he met Indian ambassador Munu Mahawar a few days after he won the elections and "told him very clearly that every single Indian military personnel here should be removed". Mohamed Muizzu’s Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) fought this year’s election on the claims that his outgoing predecessor Ibrahim Mohamed Solih allowed India an unchecked presence in the Indian Ocean archipelago. Muizzu has repeatedly claimed that under Solih’s administration, Maldives’ sovereignty was threatened by the Indian military personnel on the island—a rallying point of the party's years-long “India out” strategy. Why are Indian troops in the Maldives, and how many? It is currently unknown how many Indian troops are there in Maldives. In 2021, the Maldivian defence force claimed that said around 75 Indian military personnel were based in the country to operate and maintain the Indian aircraft. Muizzu argues that the presence of Indian troops could put the Maldives at risk in the event of any tensions between India and China along their Himalayan border. "Maldives is too small to get entangled with this global power struggle. We will not get entangled into this," he said. India has provided about $2 billion in development assistance to the country and donated two helicopters to assist in the rescue of people stranded or faced with calamities at sea. It was the gifting of helicopters to Maldives that fuelled the 'India out' campaign. He also told BBC that he would review every agreement the Maldives signed with India. Also read | Maldives President-elect Muizzu vows to remove Indian military presence "We don't know what's in there. Even in Parliament, some of the MPs during the debates said that they didn't know what was in there. I am sure we will find it out," he was quoted as saying. Origins of Muizzu’s pro-China leanings It is argued that Muizzu’s China leanings stem from significant Chinese loans received by the Maldives during the previous PPM government’s tenure. Also read | Is China winding down some BRI investments? These loans have led to closer economic ties between the Maldives and China, including infrastructure projects and investments in the country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Told India to remove troops from Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu

Is Maldives' new President, Mohamed Muizzu, a puppet in his own country? Or is he a man being misled by ill-intentioned forces? We ask this question because the new president of this small but strategically important island nation has made a significant pledge right after being declared the winner. An ill-informed pledge that will harm the people of Maldives in the long run.

Gravitas: Maldives' new President puppet in own country? Pro-China leader vows to oust Indian troops

The Maldives' presidential election, which was viewed as a test of the fledgling democracy and the archipelago's connections to China and India, its longtime sponsor, was won by Mohamed Muizzu over incumbent Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in a second-round runoff.

How will Maldives look under Mohamed Muizzu? Foreign policy to change if he gets elected?

Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his pro-China stance, has reiterated his commitment to remove all the foreign soldiers deployed on the island.

Muizzu’s remarks came at an event held on Monday night to mark his victory in the recently concluded presidential election, Maldives-based Sunonline news outlet reported.

He was referring to India’s military presence in the region where China has been trying to increase its influence.

In that event, he stressed that he would ensure the Maldives remained “independent”, and noted that the people had voted for him to ensure that his pledge was fulfilled.

He further said that he would initiate his move after he is sworn in, adding that he will act within the constraints of the law.

“The people have told us that they don't want foreign military here,” he said.

“Therefore, what I have to say to the ambassador who will come to meet me is close relations can be maintained based on this condition,” he added.

<h2>Part of Muizzu’s decades-long ‘India out strategy'</h2>

Mohamed Muizzu’s Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) fought this year’s election on the claims that his outgoing predecessor Ibrahim Mohamed Solih allowed India an unchecked presence in the Indian Ocean region.

Muizzu has repeatedly claimed that under Solih’s administration, Maldives’ sovereignty was threatened by the Indian military personnel on the island—a rallying point of the party's yearslong “India out” strategy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tells-canada-to-repatriate-41-envoys-by-oct-10-issues-warning-report-642030">India tells Canada to repatriate 41 envoys by Oct 10, issues warning: Report</a>

Solih had repeatedly maintained that the Indian military’s presence was only to build a dockyard under an agreement between the two governments and that his country’s sovereignty wouldn’t be violated.

It is believed that India is helping the Maldives in developing a harbour in Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), which many argue has strong military implications. It comprises&nbsp;a coastguard harbour and dockyard in a strategically located atoll just northwest of the capital Male.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-caretaker-prime-minister-anwarul-haq-kakar-hints-military-picked-him-641537">Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar says military very strong, ‘picked’ him for post</a>

<h2>Origins of Muizzu’s pro-China leanings</h2>

It is argued that Muizzu’s China leanings stem from significant Chinese loans received by the Maldives during the previous PPM government’s tenure.

These loans have led to closer economic ties between the Maldives and China, including infrastructure projects and investments in the country.

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Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his pro-China stance, has reiterated his commitment to remove all the foreign soldiers deployed on the island.

Maldives President-elect Mohamed Muizzu, who is known for his pro-China stance, has reiterated his commitment to remove all the foreign soldiers deployed on the island. Muizzu’s remarks came at an event held on Monday night to mark his victory in the recently concluded presidential election, Maldives-based Sunonline news outlet reported. He was referring to India’s military presence in the region where China has been trying to increase its influence. In that event, he stressed that he would ensure the Maldives remained “independent”, and noted that the people had voted for him to ensure that his pledge was fulfilled. He further said that he would initiate his move after he is sworn in, adding that he will act within the constraints of the law. “The people have told us that they don't want foreign military here,” he said. “Therefore, what I have to say to the ambassador who will come to meet me is close relations can be maintained based on this condition,” he added. Part of Muizzu’s decades-long ‘India out strategy' Mohamed Muizzu’s Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) fought this year’s election on the claims that his outgoing predecessor Ibrahim Mohamed Solih allowed India an unchecked presence in the Indian Ocean region. Muizzu has repeatedly claimed that under Solih’s administration, Maldives’ sovereignty was threatened by the Indian military personnel on the island—a rallying point of the party's yearslong “India out” strategy. Also read | India tells Canada to repatriate 41 envoys by Oct 10, issues warning: Report Solih had repeatedly maintained that the Indian military’s presence was only to build a dockyard under an agreement between the two governments and that his country’s sovereignty wouldn’t be violated. It is believed that India is helping the Maldives in developing a harbour in Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF), which many argue has strong military implications. It comprises a coastguard harbour and dockyard in a strategically located atoll just northwest of the capital Male. Also read | Pakistan’s caretaker Prime Minister Anwarul Haq Kakar says military very strong, ‘picked’ him for post Origins of Muizzu’s pro-China leanings It is argued that Muizzu’s China leanings stem from significant Chinese loans received by the Maldives during the previous PPM government’s tenure. These loans have led to closer economic ties between the Maldives and China, including infrastructure projects and investments in the country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Maldives President-elect Muizzu vows to remove Indian military presence

Pro-China leader Mohamed Muizzu has won the country's Presidential race. Has China won the game in Maldives? Will this victory impact India's ties with Maldives? Here's what Molly Gambhir has to say.

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Told India to remove troops from Maldives: President-elect Mohamed Muizzu

Gravitas: Maldives' new President puppet in own country? Pro-China leader vows to oust Indian troops

How will Maldives look under Mohamed Muizzu? Foreign policy to change if he gets elected?

Maldives President-elect Muizzu vows to remove Indian military presence