• UGI USER
  • Dec 15, 2023
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MALDIVES DECISION TO END HYDROGRAPHY AGREEMENT

Why in the News?

  • The Maldives government, led by President Mohamed Muizzu, has opted not to renew the hydrographic survey agreement with India.
  • Initially signed on June 8, 2019, during the Indian Prime Minister’s visit, the agreement allowed India to conduct a hydrographic survey of Maldivian waters.
Source: Pinterest

Agreement Details and Termination Process:

  • The agreement covered the study and mapping of reefs, coastlines, ocean currents, and tide levels in Maldives’ territorial waters.
  • The Muizzu administration’s decision marks the first bilateral pact officially terminated by the newly-elected Maldives government.
  • Undersecretary Mohamed Firuzul Abdul Khaleel explained that the agreement, set to expire on June 7, 2024, would automatically renew unless either party informed the other six months before expiry.

National Security and Maldivian Military Capacity:

  • The decision not to renew the hydrography agreement aligns with Muizzu’s focus on national security.
  • The Maldives government believes enhancing the military’s capacity to conduct such surveys is essential for safeguarding sensitive information.
  • Future hydrography works aim to be managed entirely by Maldivians, ensuring exclusive access to the gathered information.

Shift in Foreign Policy and Indian Military Presence:

  • President Muizzu’s administration has shifted from the traditional ‘India First’ policy, choosing Turkey as the first foreign destination.
  • Earlier this month, Muizzu announced that the Indian government agreed to withdraw its soldiers from the Maldives.
  • Discussions are ongoing about the operational details of Indian helicopters and aircraft, emphasizing the establishment of a core group to address these matters.