New Delhi - India is actively advocating for the retention of its troops and military assets in the Maldives, a strategically vital island nation, as per undisclosed sources in New Delhi.

A committee has been established by the two nations to address the deployment of Indian forces in the archipelago, the officials disclosed, preferring anonymity due to the confidential nature of the discussions.

A press release from the Maldivian president's office on Sunday indicated that there is already an agreement to withdraw approximately 70 Indian troops. President Mohamed Muizzu, who assumed office in September, leads a party perceived to have close ties with Beijing and has shown openness to Chinese investments.

India's Ministry of External Affairs opted not to provide comments.

The issue of troop withdrawal underscores the ongoing power struggle between India and China for influence in the archipelago, strategically positioned along busy shipping routes in the Indian Ocean. Both nations have made substantial investments in upgrading Maldives' infrastructure and extending financial assistance.

During election campaigns, Muizzu pledged to recalibrate the Maldives' "India first" policy and reduce the presence of military personnel in the archipelago. The president's announcement on Sunday follows his recent meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the COP28 summit in the United Arab Emirates.

Discussions about scaling back India's military presence took place briefly in Dubai, according to the senior Indian officials. The two countries agreed to further dialogue on the matter, with the Maldives acknowledging the significance of India's military equipment.

In the Maldives, India is responsible for operating and maintaining radars, helicopters, and aircraft, some of which are utilized for medical evacuations, while the Indian Navy conducts patrols in the surrounding waters.