The governments of Maldives and India have discussed extending the duration of the agreements for operating two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft donated to the Maldives.
According to Indian media, the matter was discussed during Wednesday's meeting between Defense Minister Ghassan Maumoon and his counterpart Rajnath Singh.
India also announced the donation of USD 4 million (MVR 62 million) worth of equipment to the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) upon a request from the Maldives government.
The removal of the Indian troops based in the Maldives to operate the two helicopters and Dornier aircraft is President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's biggest pledge. He said their presence in the country is a threat to national security.
Since assuming office in November 2023, several rounds of talks were held between the two countries to remove the Indian soldiers. But under the final agreement, the uniformed soldiers were replaced by staff from Hindustan Aeronautics which operates directly under the Indian Defense Ministry.
The government described the staff from Hindustan Aeronautics as civilians. They are stationed in Laamu Kadhdhoo, Seenu Gan and Haa Dhaal Hanimaadhoo under the existing agreement on operating the helicopters and Dornier.
The government earlier said the agreement for Kadhdhoo and Gan will end in February 2025 while the agreement for Hanimaadhoo is expected to come to an end in February 2026.
