NE Watch Desk
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has
praised the strategic ties between Maldives and China, highlighting mutual
respect and China’s support for the island nation’s sovereignty. Muizzu’s
comments come amid tensions in the Maldives’ relationship with Bharat,
escalating after he assumed office in November.
Returning from a State visit to China,
Muizzu emphasized the positive role of China in assisting Maldives’ development
since 1972. During the visit, both nations elevated their ties to a strategic
partnership, aligning the Maldives closer to Beijing.
Muizzu assured that China respects
Maldives, and there is no interference in the internal affairs, contributing to
their robust relationship. He expressed confidence in the continued
strengthening of China-Maldives relations, emphasizing President Xi Jinping’s
citizen-centric leadership and China’s economic achievements.
Amid a diplomatic row with Bharat over
derogatory comments by Muizzu’s three ministers against Prime Minister Narendra
Modi, the Maldivian President suspended the ministers and urged Bharat to
withdraw military personnel by March 15.
Covertly criticizing Bharat, Muizzu emphasized
Maldives’ independence and sovereign status, pledging to reduce dependency on Bharat.
Addressing concerns raised by the
derogatory remarks, Muizzu vowed not to allow external influence on Maldives’
domestic affairs, emphasizing its sovereignty. The Maldives is reviewing over
100 bilateral agreements with Bharat signed by the erstwhile government,
signaling potential shifts in diplomatic ties.
