International news: Second core group meeting between India and Maldives today

The second core group meeting between India and Maldives regarding the withdrawal of Indian troops from Maldives will be held in Delhi today. The first meeting of the Core Group was held on January 14 in Male, the capital of Maldives. In the meeting held in Male, it was agreed between India and Maldives to expedite the process of withdrawal of Indian troops. The bilateral cooperation between the two countries was also reviewed in the first Core Group meeting held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives.

There can be talks on keeping India’s aviation platform operational in Maldives
In the first meeting of the Core Group, issues of mutual interest and development cooperation were discussed in detail. Both sides also agreed to expedite the process of withdrawal of Indian troops from Maldives. Besides, both sides had also agreed to hold a high-level core group meeting at a convenient time. India and Maldives are also discussing the issue that even if the troops withdraw, India’s aviation platform in Maldives should be kept operational so that the people of Maldives continue to get humanitarian and medical help.

Muizzu had announced the withdrawal of Indian troops
Various projects going on in Maldives with India’s cooperation were also discussed. Maldivian President Mohammed Muizzu had announced the withdrawal of Indian troops from Maldives as soon as he assumed power. Muizzu is considered pro-China. This is the reason why after becoming the President, Muizzu’s first foreign trip was to China, whereas usually the President of Maldives visits India first. Muizzu’s party also runs anti-India campaigns in Maldives.

China wants to increase its influence in Maldives
Currently, about 70 Indian soldiers are present in Maldives. Apart from these, one Dornier 228 Maritime Patrol aircraft and two HAL Dhruv helicopters are also present in Maldives. Maldives holds great strategic importance due to its geographical location in the Indian Ocean. This is the reason why if Indian troops withdraw from Maldives and China establishes its dominance there, then it will be a big blow for India.