2023-12-10 15:44:36
Maldives Vice President Hussain Mohammed Latif recently made a significant statement at the Indian Ocean Region Forum in China, signaling a shift in the country’s foreign policy. Latif emphasized the need for inclusive cooperation and mutual ties among all countries in the Indian Ocean. This move comes as the new government led by President Mohamed Muisu aims to increase cooperation in the region and put an end to factional conflicts.
The Vice President’s speech holds importance due to the perceived influence of China in the Maldives. The country has seen significant investment and involvement from China, especially since the regime of former President Abdulla Yameen. The recent elections saw Muisu, who is associated with Yameen, defeat the incumbent president, who had a close relationship with India. This has raised concerns about potential increased influence of China in the Maldives, and the subsequent impact on India.
Furthermore, China’s growing influence in the region has been evident with its acquisition of Sri Lanka’s Ambantota port after the country defaulted on debt, and the establishment of a military base in Djibouti. The Indian Ocean Region Forum organized in China served as a platform for the Maldives to express its desire to build strong ties and achieve common interests with China, amid investments and development projects under the Belt and Road Initiative.
The organization of the forum by the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), and the absence of India at last year’s meeting, raises questions about the increasing influence of China in the region and its potential to challenge India’s dominant position. This comes amidst existing regional organizations such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association and initiatives like SAGAR, launched by the Modi government to strengthen maritime cooperation.
The shifting dynamics in the Maldives raise concerns for India, given its longstanding diplomatic, military, economic, and cultural relations with the country. India has provided aid, military equipment, and assistance to the Maldives, and has had an active presence in the region. The collaboration between India and the Maldives has been based on mutual cooperation and partnership.
In the context of the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives’ stance and the influence of external powers such as China hold significant implications for the region and its strategic importance. The mutual ties and cooperation among the countries in the Indian Ocean will continue to be a focal point in the evolving dynamics of regional geopolitics.
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