Since the establishment of President Mohammed Muizzu's government, the Maldives has been endeavoring to reduce India's footprint in its region. Last month, the Muizzu administration repatriated a group of Indian soldiers stationed in the Maldives. The remaining Indian troops across various locations in the Maldives are expected to return by May 10th, to be replaced by an Indian technical team. Amidst the ongoing diplomatic strife between the Maldives and India, China is working to cement its presence in the archipelago nation.
China provides proactive support to the Maldives, from offering military assistance to constructing key infrastructure. The growing presence of China in the Maldives indicates that the island nation may be attempting to distance itself from India. Let's explore how President Muizzu's administration is receiving China's support through several points.
Military Aid from China to the Maldives at No Cost
In March 2024, China and the Maldives entered into a defense agreement. Under this pact, China will offer free military assistance to fortify its robust bilateral ties with the Maldives. The Maldives' news channels quoted Muizzu stating that the Chinese government is prepared to train the Maldivian army. He also added that China could provide non-lethal weapons like tear gas and pepper spray as part of military grants.
Gift of Eco-Friendly Ambulances
According to Maldivian news websites, China has gifted the Maldives 12 eco-friendly ambulances. The Ministry of Health in the Maldives indicated these ambulances would be utilized for emergency situations.
China Grants 10 Civilian Vehicles to the Maldives
Recently, China donated 10 civilian vehicles to the Maldives. These were sent from Shandong Province in China on March 28th and are designed for garbage collection and municipal purposes. Ambassador Wang Lixin of China in the Maldives has expressed confidence that these vehicles will aid in keeping Maldivian cities clean and enhance their beauty.
Environmental Protection Collaboration with Chinese Company
The Maldivian government has entered into a contract with China Tianying Inc to cooperate in environmental conservation efforts. This agreement allegedly focuses on climate change, water and sanitation, energy, environmental preservation, and the development of low-carbon cities. Additionally, the Chinese company has planned to contribute to socio-economic development.
China Delivers Drinking Water to the Maldives
News reports highlight that China has recently shipped 1500 tons of drinking water to the Maldives amidst a severe water shortage. This water was reportedly from Tibet's glaciers.
China to Build Roads in the Maldives for Free
According to the Maldivian government website, on March 26th, President Muizzu announced that China has agreed to construct all roads in Male city free of charge. This initiative aligns with Muizzu’s February promise to build quality roads in all Maldivian cities. Construction is set to begin this year.
The Strategic Importance of the Maldives for India
Approximately 2,000 kilometers separate the Maldives and India, with India being the closest neighbor. What makes the Maldives special is its location in the Indian Ocean, near the shipping lane vital for energy supplies to China, Japan, and India.
Furthermore, the Maldives is a member of SAARC, the organization of eight South Asian countries. Maintaining influence in the region is essential for India, which needs Maldives' cooperation. Following the 2016 Uri attack, India appealed to boycott the SAARC summit planned in Pakistan. The Maldives was the only country to stand with India during this time.
