Defense Minister Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon will pay an official visit to India this week, Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullah Khaleel has announced.

Khaleel, who is on an official visit to India, told WION TV that Ghassan's visit will further strengthen security and safety ties between Maldives and India.

WION reported that Ghassan will visit India on January 7 and 8. This is his first visit to India as Defense Minister.

In his interview with WION, Khaleel said the current government is no longer connected to the India Out campaign.

He said the campaign was led by former President Abdulla Yameen although the ruling People's National Congress (PNC) won the elections as a result of the campaign.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Ghassan and other senior cabinet ministers took part in the rallies and events of the India Out campaign.

Muizzu pledged during the presidential elections to ensure the removal of Indian troops stationed in Maldives to operate two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft.

But the military helicopters and aircraft continue to operate while the uniformed Indian soldiers were replaced by members from Hindustan Aeronautics which is under the Indian Defense Ministry.

Despite this, the government claims that Muizzu's presidential pledge has been fulfilled.