The Maldivian side has acknowledged the utility of HADR platforms, sources said.
Indian officials “briefly” discussed the issue related to Indian platforms engaged in HADR activities with their counterparts from the Maldives on the sidelines of the COP 28 Summit in Dubai.
 
“The Maldivian side has acknowledged the utility of these platforms.  The fact that it is an important segment of our bilateral development partnership is recognised by both sides,” sources said.
 
“Discussions on how to keep them operational are ongoing. The core group that both sides have agreed to set up will look at details of how to take this forward,” sources added.
 
Speaking to reporters after his talks with Indian officials on the sidelines of COP28 Summit in Dubai on Friday, the Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu said the Indian government has decided to remove its troops from the island nation.
 
“The Indian government has agreed to remove Indian soldiers,” Maldives President Muizzu told reporters.
 
“We also agreed to set up a high-level committee to solve issues related to development projects.”
 
Newly elected Maldivian President Muizzu is known for his pro-China stand.

Two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft that India donated to Maldives are meant for HADR activities and Indian military personnel have been stationed there to oversee operations of these platforms.