President Muhammed Muissu wants Indian troops to withdraw from Maldives before March 15. The President’s ultimatum came after his return from a five-day visit to China. 88 Indian soldiers are in Maldives for maritime security and disaster relief.
The comments made by three Maldivian ministers regarding Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep were controversial and they were suspended. The ultimatum to withdraw the Indian forces was given before the ripples of this incident subsided. After taking office as the new president, Muisu has constantly raised the demand for the withdrawal of Indian forces. But no deadline has been set yet.
The press release of the President’s Office also stated that the policy of President Muhammadu Muissoo and his administration is that the Indian Army cannot stay in the Maldives.