Relations between India and the Maldives have soured since pro-ChinaPresident Mohamed Muizzu won elections last year after promising to expelIndian forces. The new base, opening March 6 on India's Lakshadweep islands, will turn anexisting small detachment into an "independent naval unit", according to thenavy's statement. India's Lakshadweep islands lie about 130 kilometres (80 miles) north of theMaldives, with the new naval base on the island of Minicoy situated at theirclosest point. India's navy already has a base on the Lakshadweep island of Kavaratti, butthe new base will be about 258 kilometres (160 miles) closer to the Maldives. "Minicoy is the southernmost island of Lakshadweep which straddles the vitalsea lines of communications," the navy said.

Source: Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha March 03, 2024 13:09 UTC