Maldives asks India to withdraw troops by March 15
The Hindu
Male Maldivian President asks India to withdraw military personnel by March 15, amid tensions and pro-China alignment.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has asked India to withdraw its military personnel from his country by March 15, a senior official here said on Sunday, nearly two months after Male sought their removal.
According to the latest government figures, there are 88 Indian military personnel in the Maldives.
In a press briefing, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, the public policy secretary at the President’s Office, said that President Muizzu has formally asked India to withdraw its military personnel by March 15, the SunOnline newspaper reported.
“Indian military personnel cannot stay in the Maldives. This is the policy of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and that of this administration,” he said.
Maldives and India have set up a high-level core group to negotiate the withdrawal of troops. The group held its first meeting at the Foreign Ministry Headquarters in Male’ on Sunday morning.
The meeting was also attended by Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar, the report said.
President Trump criticises Biden administration for allocating $18 million to India for elections, accusing India of taking advantage.
Germany's upcoming election will shape its response to global challenges, with the center-right opposition favored to win.
Trump seeks mineral resources deal with Ukraine to recoup wartime aid, sparking tensions with Kyiv and Europe.
New FBI Director Kash Patel to lead ATF, sparking concerns over gun regulations and Second Amendment rights.
Federal workers face sudden demand to justify work, as Elon Musk leads Trump's government downsizing efforts.
Pennsylvania hospital hostage situation ends in shootout, leaving one officer and the gunman dead.
Pope Francis in critical condition with respiratory crisis, battling pneumonia and infection, prognosis reserved, Vatican says.
U.N. Security Council calls on Rwanda to stop backing M23 fighters in DR Congo, halting bloodshed and displacement.
US proposes UN resolution on Ukraine conflict without mentioning Kyiv's territory, sparking controversy and diplomatic tensions.
Nepal awaits India's invitation for PM Oli's visit, amid strained ties over delays and BRI involvement.
Panama court reviews concession to Hong Kong firm managing Panama Canal ports amid Trump's Chinese influence concerns.
French President Macron plans to urge US President Trump to avoid imposing new tariffs on allies' goods.
Pope Francis battles pneumonia and sepsis threat, remains hospitalised, missing Vatican events, recovery uncertain.