The government of Maldives has asserted that the reports being circulated by foreign media outlets that talks are underway to establish Turkish troops in the Maldives, are false news.
Foreign media outlets have quoted Turkish military affairs analyst Selim Akönül having claimed that setting up a military “presence” in the Maldives, although limited, would be a major strategic achievement for Turkey.
International media has also cited analysts having revealed that Turkey wants to increase its military presence in the Indian Ocean with the help of Maldives, and that this was a road for Turkey to establish a permanent foothold in the Indian Ocean region.
It has also been reported that discussions are currently underway between both governments, in connection with this matter.
These foreign media reports come at a time the incumbent administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has pledged that no foreign troops would be allowed to station in the Maldives.
When inquired regarding the alarming reports, the President’s Office denied these claims.
As such, Minister at the President’s Office Ibrahim Khaleel noted that military troops from any country would not be stationed anywhere in the Maldives.
He further confirmed that there were no discussions with any country, to deploy military personnel to the Maldives.
According to international media quoting foreign sources, experts and analysts, discussions have been held on strengthening military ties between the Maldives and Turkey, in the near future.
As such Directus has reported that both countries are exploring possibilities for Turkish military training programmes in the Maldives as well as bilateral exercises and even basing Turkish troops and surveillance assets.
Although historically Turkey’s foreign policy has been focused around improving relations with its neighbors, it has gradually been changing under the leadership of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
This includes prioritizing countries in the Indian Ocean and Maldives and Turkey have also been cooperating to expand ties.
