The Maldives government announced on Monday the successful repatriation of 51 Indian soldiers stationed in the country. This move aligns with the agreement between the Maldives and India to deport all Indian soldiers before the end of the week.
The Chief Spokesperson of the President’s Office, Heena Waleed, confirmed the repatriation, indicating that discussions with the media revealed the return of 51 soldiers. However, Waleed refrained from disclosing the exact number of Indian soldiers present in the Maldives, citing forthcoming details to be shared at a later date.
While the focus remains on the departure of Indian military personnel, there has been no official statement regarding the influx of Indian civilian replacements in the Maldives.
In addition to the repatriation agreement, both nations have committed to recruiting civilian professionals from India to manage the Dornier aircraft and helicopters in the Maldives.
Previously, government sources stated that 89 soldiers were documented in the country, all of whom are expected to depart before the looming Friday deadline, reiterated by state officials.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs had previously outlined a departure schedule, with a batch of Indian soldiers slated to leave by April 10, 2024, and the remaining officers expected to depart before May 10.
The repatriation of Indian soldiers stationed in the Maldives was a cornerstone of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s electoral campaign. Following his election victory, President Muizzu promptly requested the withdrawal of Indian military personnel, a commitment now realized with the ongoing repatriation process.
