BEIJING: In the wake of a diplomatic dispute between India and the Maldives following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Lakshadweep, China has called upon New Delhi to approach its South Asian neighbors with an ”open mind.” The Global Times, China’s state media, emphasized in an editorial that it considers the Maldives an ”equal partner and respects its sovereignty.”
Maldives An Equal Partner: China
The editorial affirms China’s respect for the friendly and cooperative relationship between the Maldives and India, recognizing the significance of Malé maintaining good relations with New Delhi. Contrary to speculation, Beijing clarified that it has never pressured the Maldives to reject India due to Sino-Indian conflicts. Furthermore, China views cooperation between the Maldives and India as neither unfriendly nor a threat, expressing willingness for trilateral cooperation.
Not A Zero-Sum Game: China
China emphasized that its cooperation with South Asian countries is not a “zero-sum game.” The editorial urged New Delhi to adopt a more open-minded approach, emphasizing the need to understand that China’s engagement in the region is not at the expense of India.
Muizzu’s China Visit
The Global Times addressed the misinterpretation by Indian media regarding President Muizzu’s visit to China before India. It highlighted that such speculations, assuming the order of visits reflects the importance of nations, reveal India’s perception of South Asia as its sphere of influence. President Muizzu’s decision to visit China first does not imply a pro-China and anti-India stance but rather signifies a normal state-to-state relationship. The editorial encouraged understanding this diplomatic move within the context of fostering healthy relations.
Maldives Suspends Ministers Over Derogatory Remarks On PM Modi
In a related development, three Maldivian ministers were suspended for making derogatory comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Lakshadweep. The Maldivian government distanced itself from these remarks, clarifying that they represented the ministers’ personal opinions and not the official stance.
Tensions between India and the Maldives have escalated since President Muizzu assumed power, defeating his India-friendly predecessor. The strained relations, fueled by perceptions of Muizzu as a pro-China politician, have added complexity to the diplomatic landscape.
President Muizzu Arrives In China
President Muizzu, accompanied by his wife, visited the Xiamen Free Trade Zone in China’s Fujian province. During the visit, he is expected to hold talks with Chinese President Xi and sign several agreements, marking a new historical starting point in Sino-Maldivian relations.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, expressed optimism that the visit would provide strategic guidance for bilateral relations to reach new heights. As President Muizzu engages in diplomatic discussions and agreements, the international community awaits the outcomes of this significant visit.