In a recent development, the Maldivian foreign ministry has confirmed that a Chinese research vessel, XIANG YANG HONG 3, is set to make a port call in Male. Addressing media reports, the ministry stated that China had formally requested diplomatic clearance for the vessel, which is halting in Maldives for “rotation of personnel and replenishment.” The ministry emphasized that China assured the vessel would not conduct any research in Maldivian waters during its stay.
This announcement follows regular concerns expressed by Bharat regarding the presence of Chinese ships in the Indian Ocean region. The diplomatic clearance granted by Maldives has raised eyebrows, with some questioning the increasing closeness between Male and Beijing, especially after the victory of pro-China leader Mohamed Muizzu.
The Maldives foreign ministry clarified that the country has a history of being a “welcoming destination” for vessels from “friendly nations,” hosting both civilian and military vessels for peaceful purposes. The statement highlighted that such port calls strengthen bilateral ties and uphold international best practices and maritime laws.
Earlier reports indicated that the Chinese research ship, equipped with advanced surveillance equipment, is expected to reach the Maldives in the first week of February. India is closely monitoring the vessel, reflecting concerns over China’s expanding activities in the Indo-Pacific Region.
This development is reminiscent of past concerns raised by Bharat over similar visits by Chinese research vessels to neighboring Sri Lanka. India had objected to the docking of “dual-use” Chinese ships in Sri Lankan ports, expressing worries about the mapping of oceanographic and other data relevant for navigation and submarine operations in the Indian Ocean region.
The backdrop of this situation includes recent diplomatic tensions between India and Maldives. Three now-suspended ministers in Maldives posted derogatory remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indians on social media. Additionally, concerns have risen in India since pro-Beijing leader Muizzu came to power in Maldives last year. Muizzu, during his campaign, pledged to remove Indian military presence from the island nation and requested India to withdraw its military personnel by March of this year. His recent visit to China, where several bilateral agreements were signed, suggests a shift in strategic partnerships, posing a new challenge for India in dealing with Maldives on multiple fronts.
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