Maldives President Faces Backlash Over ‘Anti-India’ Stance and Growing Ties with China
In a potentially significant geopolitical and military shift in the Indian Ocean Region, the Maldives government’s “anti-India stance” and growing ties with China have raised concerns about the island nation’s development. The main opposition parties, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats, have warned that alienating India, the country’s most long-standing ally, could be detrimental to the long-term development of the Maldives.
President Mohamed Muizzu, who won the 2023 elections, campaigned on an anti-India narrative, departing from his predecessors’ pro-India policy. This shift in foreign policy has raised eyebrows and sparked debates about the future direction of the Maldives.
Both the MDP and the Democrats believe that working with all development partners, including India, is crucial for the stability and security of the Maldives. They argue that stability and security in the Indian Ocean are vital to the country’s overall well-being.
At a joint news conference, MDP’s chairperson Fayyaz Ismail, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Ahmed Saleem, Democrats chief MP Hassan Latheef, and Parliamentary Group Leader Ali Azim expressed their concerns about the direction of foreign policy under President Muizzu. They emphasized the need for the Maldivian government to maintain its traditional approach of working with all development partners.
The recent upgrade in ties with China has further strained relations between India and the Maldives. A diplomatic row erupted after Maldivian ministers made derogatory comments against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his visit to India’s Lakshadweep islands. President Muizzu’s first state visit after assuming office was to China, a departure from the tradition of making India the first port of call.
Adding to the concerns, the Maldives has set a deadline for India to withdraw its troops by March 5. This move has raised questions about the future of India-Maldives relations and the implications for regional stability.
In a statement, the Maldives clarified that it has allowed a Chinese survey ship to dock at one of its ports for replenishment, but it will not conduct any “research” in Maldivian waters. The government emphasized that the Maldives has always been a welcoming destination for vessels of friendly countries, both civilian and military, for peaceful purposes.
The growing ties with China and the perceived pivot away from India have sparked debates about the Maldives’ strategic alignment and its impact on regional dynamics. As the Maldives navigates its foreign policy choices, it must carefully consider the potential consequences and ensure that its long-term development is not compromised.
The stability and security of the Indian Ocean are crucial not only for the Maldives but also for the entire region. The Maldivian government must strike a balance between its development partners and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders to ensure a prosperous future for the nation.