India and the Maldives have established a high-level core group to address various bilateral issues, particularly concerning the deployment of Indian military and civilian technical personnel in the island nation. The decision to set up this core group was made during a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Muizzu on the sidelines of the COP28 summit in Dubai in December.
In their third meeting held in Male, both sides reviewed the ongoing deployment of Indian civilian technical personnel, which aims to ensure the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms in the Maldives. This review also included discussions on the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the island, with India announcing the return of its first team of military personnel operating an advanced light helicopter.
The meeting emphasized the need for expediting the implementation of ongoing development cooperation projects and boosting bilateral trade and investment. Both countries also discussed enhancing people-to-people linkages through capacity building and travel.
It was agreed that the next meeting of the high-level core group would be held in New Delhi on a mutually convenient date. This decision underscores the commitment of both India and the Maldives to address bilateral issues effectively and further strengthen their cooperation.
The establishment of the core group follows some strain in the relationship between India and the Maldives since Muizzu assumed power in November. Muizzu's presidency, characterized by a pro-China stance, raised concerns about the future of India-Maldives ties. However, both countries remain committed to maintaining strong bilateral relations, particularly in areas of defense and security, which witnessed significant progress under the previous government in Male.
