Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, appealed to the Chinese government to strengthen its efforts in sending more tourists to the Maldives, citing China as the island nation’s “closest” ally. The request comes amidst a diplomatic dispute triggered by derogatory remarks made by Maldivian ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Addressing the Maldives Business Forum in Fujian province, President Muizzu expressed gratitude for China’s role as a key ally and development partner. He particularly lauded the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) projects initiated by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2014, asserting that these projects have delivered the most significant infrastructure developments in Maldivian history.
“China remains one of our closest allies, and we cherish our partnership with them,” President Muizzu declared, emphasizing the importance of further collaboration. He urged China to intensify efforts to restore its status as Maldives’ primary tourism market, citing the significant economic impact it had before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“China was our number one market pre-Covid, and it is my request that we intensify efforts for China to regain this position,” President Muizzu stated, underlining the pivotal role of Chinese tourists in the Maldivian tourism sector.
In a demonstration of the commitment to strengthen ties, both nations also inked a USD 50 million deal to develop an integrated tourism zone in the Maldives. The project aims to enhance the tourism infrastructure in the country, offering a positive outlook for economic growth and collaboration.
However, this move towards strengthened relations comes in the wake of a diplomatic row triggered by derogatory remarks made by some Maldivian ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep. In response, all three deputy ministers involved were suspended, and the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) strongly condemned the comments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining diplomatic decorum.
President Muizzu, in his speech, highlighted his administration’s focus on diversifying the Maldives’ economic base and ensuring economic security. He emphasized the rapid implementation of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed with China in December 2014 as a symbol of the close commercial ties between the two nations.
“The FTA’s aim to boost bilateral trade and investments, especially increasing our export of fish products to China, is a key priority for us through the FTA,” President Muizzu explained, underlining the potential economic benefits for both countries.
Moreover, the president sought investments from Chinese companies for 11 ambitious projects showcased at the Maldives Investment Forum. These projects include the relocation of the Male Commercial Port to Thilafushi, the development of Velana International Airport, and the construction of 15 additional airports, signifying the nation’s commitment to economic growth and infrastructure development.
As President Muizzu strives to foster closer ties with China, this appeal for increased tourism and collaboration marks a significant step in reshaping diplomatic relations and economic partnerships in the region. The integration of Chinese investments and support is expected to contribute to the Maldives’ economic resilience and growth in the coming years.
PM visits #Lakshadweep, social media uproar, Indian tourists boycott #Maldives, Maldivian ministers suspended, 5-star hotels and an airport coming up in Lakshadweep. All in lightning speed. This is the way the new India works -it cannot be undermined, it will fight back and hard.
— Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) January 9, 2024
