In a recent press release from the Foreign Ministry of Maldives on Friday, it was confirmed that the last batch of Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives will be departing before May 10th. The announcement follows the Fourth Meeting of the High-level Core Group between the Maldives and India, which took place in New Delhi on May 3rd, where discussions on bilateral cooperation, including development and defense, were held. Both parties expressed satisfaction with the progress of logistical arrangements for the withdrawal.

Additionally, it was agreed that the fifth meeting of the High-Level Core Group will convene in Male’ in the coming months. Concurrently, Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer is scheduled to embark on an official visit to India on May 9th, marking the first such visit since President Dr. Muizzu assumed office in November last year.

President Muizzu had pledged to withdraw Indian troops during his campaign, and discussions between the two countries have resulted in plans to temporarily operate the helicopters and Dornier craft with Indian civilians instead of military personnel. The first two batches of personnel departed in March and April, respectively, as part of the withdrawal process.