The Maldives and China are strengthening their defence cooperation and economic ties, sparking concerns over the island nation’s growing debt. Recent discussions between the two nations highlight increasing military and financial collaboration, which has raised eyebrows both domestically and internationally.
Defence Cooperation Discussions
On the sidelines of the 11th Beijing Xiangshan Forum, Maldives Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon met with his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun. This meeting focused on strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries. Although the specifics were not disclosed, this marks another step in the growing military relationship between the two nations.
Maldives’ Ambassador to China, Dr. Fazeel Najeeb, also attended the meeting, further underlining the importance of these discussions. This defence cooperation follows a military assistance agreement signed in March. As per the agreement, China would give the Maldivian military and security agencies military hardware and training.
Economic Cooperation Deepens
The Maldives and China are growing closer in both trade and military ties. They recently signed a deal to increase trade and investment between the two countries. This new agreement also allows them to use their own currencies for some transactions.
The Maldives is already in serious debt, owing China more than $1.3 billion. This deal will give the Maldives more financial help from China, but it could also make the country more dependent on China. China hasn’t shared many details about the agreement yet. But it shows how much more control China has over the Maldives.
Debt Crisis Worsens
The Maldives’ debt is growing, and the government is trying hard to avoid missing a $25 million payment due next month. China is the Maldives’ biggest lender, and the money owed to China keeps increasing.
The Maldivian government is in a tough spot, trying to handle its debt while staying close to China. As the debt grows, people worry that the Maldives might not be able to repay its loans, which could lead to a default. China’s foreign ministry says it will keep helping the Maldives with its economic problems. But as the debt to China increases, many wonder how long this relationship can last.
Shift in Political Alliances
The Maldives’ shift towards China has coincided with a change in government, with President Mohamed Muizzu taking office earlier this year. His party secured a landslide victory in the parliamentary elections in April. This has led to a major shift in the island nation’s political and geopolitical stance.
Previously, the Maldives maintained close ties with India. But under President Muizzu, the country has gravitated towards China. This shift has caused tension between the island nation and India. Regarding the presence of Indian military personnel in the Maldives.
President Muizzu demanded the withdrawal of Indian troops shortly after taking office, marking a clear change in the nation’s foreign policy. Although the situation was defused when Indian military personnel were replaced by civilians, the relationship between the two countries remains strained.
Strained Relations with India
The Maldives’ growing relationship with China has put pressure on its ties with India. Three junior ministers from the Maldives made contentious comments regarding Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on social media in January. This led to their suspension, and two of the ministers recently resigned.
Despite these tensions, President Muizzu is expected to visit India soon, marking an attempt to ease the strained relations. His visit could offer an opportunity to rebuild ties between the two nations.
As Maldives is moving closer to China, it remains uncertain how this relationship will evolve. India’s influence in the region may continue to diminish. Especially as the island nation has strengthen its economic and defence cooperation with China.
Way Forward
The Maldives’ growing relationship with China highlights the island nation’s geopolitical shift and increasing reliance on Chinese financial support. While defence and economic cooperation between the two countries continue to deepen. As the island nation faces rising debt and strained relations with India. How it will navigate these challenges will shape its future on the international stage.