Maldives vows to boost defences after telling Indian troops to leave
The Hindu
Maldives vows to strengthen its military to defend its maritime territory and orders Indian troops to withdraw.
The small but strategically placed Maldives will strengthen its military to defend its vast maritime territory, the new President vowed on Monday after ordering Indian troops to withdraw from the archipelago.
Mohamed Muizzu said in his first address to Parliament he would turn the modest Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF) into a modern military capable of patrolling its seas, which straddle key global shipping lanes.
The leader reiterated that India will begin withdrawing its troops operating three maritime reconnaissance aircraft from March 10 and complete the process within two months.
New Delhi considers the Indian Ocean archipelago to be within its sphere of influence.
However, the Maldives has shifted into the orbit of China — its largest external creditor — with September’s election of Mr. Muizzu, who demanded the Indian troops leave.
“I believe that the modern military capability to defend the country by road, sea and air should be strengthened in the Maldives,” Mr. Muizzu said. “We have started to do that now.”
He said the MNDF will soon be able to conduct surveillance of the country’s 9,00,000 square-km Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) around the clock.
Harvard professor Carlos Portugal Gouvea arrested for discharging a pellet gun near a synagogue; agrees to leave the U.S.
Macron cautioned Zelenskyy that the U.S. might pressure Ukraine into territorial concessions to Russia without security guarantees.
A Canadian national was arrested at the Indo-Nepal border for using a fake immigration stamp on his passport.
Appeals court permits Trump to maintain National Guard deployment in D.C., reversing a lower court's order to withdraw troops.
Iraq retracts its terror designation of Hezbollah and Houthis, citing an error amid regional political pressures and public backlash.
U.S. military strikes drug boats amid scrutiny over legality and rising casualties, prompting investigations and conflicting congressional testimonies.
Indian envoy Santosh Jha meets Sri Lanka’s Housing Minister to discuss reconstruction efforts following Cyclone Ditwah's devastating impact.
The U.S. and Kenya sign a $2.5 billion health deal, marking the start of "America First" global health agreements.
Explore the resilience and daily realities of Ukrainians enduring relentless warfare in a country forever changed by conflict.
Trump's envoys engage with Ukraine amid eased sanctions on Russia, seeking to advance peace negotiations following recent talks with Putin.
Explore China's rural revitalization efforts, showcasing poverty alleviation, local spirit, and sustainable development in its diverse landscapes.
UN Security Council delegates visit Syria for the first time since 1945, aiming to build trust and support national reconciliation.
U.S. reduces work permit validity for refugees and asylum seekers to 18 months, citing public safety concerns following recent violence.