Maldives President Faces Backlash for Anti-India Move

_{Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu. Reuters file}

New Delhi: The Maldives government's recent "anti-India stance" raises concerns about potential harm to the nation's development, caution the main opposition parties. This follows the announcement of a Chinese ship docking at the Maldivian port. The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats issue this warning amid strained relations with India and the Maldives' growing affinity towards China. Such a shift signifies a significant geopolitical and military change in the Indian Ocean Region.

President Mohamed Muizzu, who won the 2023 elections, campaigned on an anti-India narrative, departing from the pro-India policy of his predecessors.

In a joint news conference, the MDP and Democrats emphasize the risk of alienating a key development partner, especially India, deemed the "most long-standing ally." They stress the importance of the Maldivian government collaborating with all development partners, as it has traditionally done, for the long-term stability and security of the country.

The opposition parties, holding a combined 55 seats in the 87-member house, underscore the critical role of stability and security in the Indian Ocean for the Maldives.

Recent diplomatic tensions led to the Maldives upgrading ties with China, exacerbated by derogatory comments from Maldivian ministers about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The country sets a March 5 deadline for India to withdraw troops, coinciding with President Muizzu's first state visit to China after assuming office.

Notably, the decision to allow a Chinese survey ship to dock is seen as further evidence of the Maldives shifting its focus from New Delhi to Beijing. While the ship is permitted for replenishment, no "research" will be conducted in Maldivian waters, according to the announcement, emphasizing the nation's pivot away from India towards China.

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