MALE: Returning from his high-profile five-day state go to to China, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu took an obvious dig at India, emphasizing that the scale of his nation would not grant others the authority to bully them. Muizzu’s assertion follows a diplomatic dispute with India over derogatory social media posts by three Maldivian ministers focusing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Oceanic Sovereignty
President Muizzu, recognized for his pro-China stance, asserted Maldives’ significance, highlighting its in depth unique financial zone of 900,000 sq. km. He declared, “This ocean does not belong to a specific country. This (Indian) Ocean also belongs to all countries situated in it,” in a veiled reference to India.
‘We Aren’t In Anyone’s Backyard’
Addressing the media on his return, Muizzu emphasised, “We aren’t in anyone’s backyard. We are an independent and sovereign state,” reaffirming Maldives’ autonomy amidst regional tensions.
Strategic Agreements With China
During his go to to China, Muizzu engaged in discussions with President Xi Jinping, culminating within the signing of 20 agreements. The joint assertion highlighted mutual help in safeguarding core pursuits, emphasizing China’s backing for Maldives’ sovereignty and opposition to exterior interference.
China’s Financial Assistance To Male
China has prolonged substantial help to Maldives, granting USD 130 million in help. Muizzu revealed that the funds would primarily be allotted to the redevelopment of roads within the capital, Male. This help follows the elevation of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
China’s Ambassador to Maldives, Wang Lixin, outlined three key elements contributing to the strong ties between the 2 nations: mutual political belief, alignment with President Xi’s initiatives, and adherence to the rules of in depth session, joint building, and shared advantages.
Diplomatic Challenges With India
Muizzu’s go to to China was overshadowed by a diplomatic row with India, stemming from derogatory remarks by Maldivian ministers towards Prime Minister Modi. Additionally, a report by the EU Election Observation Mission accused the ruling coalition of deploying anti-India sentiments and spreading disinformation within the 2023 presidential elections.
Despite the diplomatic tensions, China and Maldives signed a USD 50 million settlement for an built-in tourism zone in Hulhumale’ and the development of 30,000 social housing items in Rasmale’. Further collaborations embody the event of a 100-bed tertiary hospital in Vilimale’, signaling an expanded and sustained cooperation between the 2 nations.
Agreement On Flight Operations
During the go to, an settlement was reached to allow Maldives’ nationwide airline, Maldivian, to conduct home flight operations in China. This transfer provides a brand new dimension to the rising partnership between the 2 international locations.
The significance of this collaboration turns into much more pronounced contemplating the historic context, with India’s substantial contributions to the event of Maldives, together with the institution and enhancement of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Male.
