The Maldives has been steadily strengthening its ties with China, moving away from its traditional partner India.
This comes against the backdrop of President Mohamed Muizzu's efforts to diversify Maldives' partnerships and lessen dependence on any single nation.
Through various collaborations, China has extended its support to the Maldives in multiple sectors, ranging from military assistance to infrastructure development.
Key collaborations include:
China's free military aid
One of the notable agreements between China and the Maldives includes a defence cooperation pact signed in March, wherein China pledged to provide free military assistance to the island nation.
This agreement aims to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries, with China offering training to the Maldivian army and potentially supplying non-lethal weaponry.
China donating eco-friendly ambulances and civil vehicles
Moreover, China has exhibited its commitment to the Maldives' healthcare infrastructure by donating eco-friendly ambulances and civil vehicles, enhancing emergency response capabilities in the islands.
Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked between the Maldives government and China Tianying Inc. to collaborate on environmental protection initiatives, focusing on areas such as climate change and low-carbon urban development.
China's humanitarian assistance, major projects contracted to China
Furthermore, China's humanitarian assistance to the Maldives was evident when it donated 1,500 tonnes of drinking water amid a water shortage crisis.
The Maldives Ministry of Health also secured an agreement with China to procure laboratory equipment for 17 islands, aiming to improve healthcare services across the country.
China's involvement extends to infrastructure development projects, as demonstrated by the contract awarded to China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) for critical projects in Hulhumale' Phase 3.
China's pledge to build roads in Malé city
Additionally, China has pledged to build roads in Malé city free of charge, furthering infrastructure development efforts in the capital.
In terms of trade relations, the implementation of the China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement holds promise for the Maldivian economy, as highlighted by President Mohamed Muizzu.
Male-Beijing agreement on agricultural self-sufficiency
Moreover, China has committed to assisting the Maldives in expanding agricultural growth to ensure food security for its population.
These collaborations are a spotlight to China's growing influence in the Maldives, particularly in light of India's withdrawal from the region.
President Muizzu's administration has taken significant steps to diversify partnerships, signaling a shift in the Maldives' geopolitical dynamics.
The diplomatic rift between India and the Maldives escalated following India's military presence in the country, prompting President Muizzu to set a deadline for the withdrawal of Indian troops.
Follow us
