The newly elected Maldivian government may be less friendly towards China than India expected, as the country’s president, Mohamed Muizzu, ran on an aggressive “India Out” platform during his campaign. This has raised concerns about potentially aligning with China, with both Beijing and Delhi vying for influence in the region amidst an ongoing border dispute.
While questions arise about a potential shift towards China, former Maldivian Foreign Minister Ahmed Shaheed suggests that the new government’s main focus is addressing financial challenges rather than ideology. With state coffers running low and a need for infrastructure development, seeking aid from China is seen as a pragmatic move to fulfill election promises.
Former Maldivian Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon believes that the election results send a clear message to India and suggest a pivot towards China. The strategic importance of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean makes it a key location for both superpowers. However, with a small population and an economy heavily reliant on tourism, the Maldives needs to maintain good relations with both regional powers to ensure its stability and prosperity.
The controversy surrounding Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s beach photoshoot earlier this year underscored the geopolitics at play in the Indian Ocean. The feud over whose beaches were more beautiful led to diplomatic tensions and calls for an Indian tourist boycott of the Maldives. The seemingly absurd dispute highlighted the impact of the Maldivian elections, which saw Muizzu elected as president.
During his campaign, Muizzu promised to reduce Indian influence and presence in the Maldives, raising concerns about potentially aligning with China. However, with state coffers running low and a need for infrastructure development, seeking aid from China is seen as a pragmatic move to fulfill election promises. While questions arise about a potential shift towards China, it is clear that maintaining good relations with both India and China is crucial for the stability and prosperity of the Maldives.
