China Deepens Ties with Maldives: Military Cooperation on the Horizon

In a significant diplomatic development, a high-ranking official from China's top political advisory body met with Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on Thursday, reinforcing the growing ties between the two nations. The meeting underscored China's increasing influence in the strategically important Indian Ocean archipelago.

The Chinese official, identified as the vice chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, emphasized the historic relations between China and the Maldives. He expressed China's commitment to supporting the Maldives' sovereignty and promoting mutual interests.

President Muizzu, who assumed office in November last year, has been actively pursuing closer relations with China. During the meeting, discussions centered on enhancing cooperation across various sectors, including defense.

The talks also touched upon key initiatives such as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, highlighting the infrastructure projects that have become a hallmark of Chinese engagement in the region.

This meeting follows Muizzu's announcement in March that the Maldives would receive non-lethal military equipment from China, marking a notable shift in the island nation's defense partnerships. This move is seen as part of the Maldives' efforts to assert its independence and reduce reliance on traditional partners.

The deepening China-Maldives relationship has raised eyebrows in the region, particularly given the archipelago's strategic location. Observers note that this is the first time the Maldives has engaged in military cooperation of this level with China, previously known mainly for its economic and infrastructural support to the country.

As China continues to expand its presence in the Indian Ocean, this latest diplomatic exchange signals a potential recalibration of power dynamics in the area, with implications for regional security and economic partnerships.