China-Maldives relationship: Muizzu in deep water
Chinese ‘research’ ship Xiang Yang Hong 03 is travelling to Maldives. Effectively President Muizzu has invited China to India’s doorstep. By contrast, India has been asked to stop joint hydrographic surveys, an area of crucial importance to Maldives. Maldives saw Indian hydrographic assistance as infringing its sovereignty. But not the Chinese?!!
This comes close on the heels of Sri Lanka finally refusing to allow Chinese research ships to dock in Sri Lankan ports. India’s neighbourhood is a case of one step forward and two steps back.
Disclaimer
Views expressed above are the author’s own.
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