The Maldives, a small island nation, has raised concerns for both the United States and India by signing defense agreements with China. Despite this, the Maldives views all major powers in the Indo-Pacific as important partners and considers regional stability crucial, according to Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed, the Maldives’ ambassador to Washington.
Ambassador Mohamed spoke following a visit to Washington by Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer. During this visit, Zameer emphasized the strategic position of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean and its commitment to maintaining a “free, peaceful, and stable Indian Ocean.”
This visit came after President Mohamed Muizzu’s party won a significant victory in the Maldives’ parliamentary elections, leading to a shift in ties towards China and away from India.
Zameer met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who expressed Washington’s desire for a deeper partnership with the Maldives. Ambassador Mohamed mentioned that he was not aware of the specifics of the defense agreements with China but assured that these agreements should not cause concern for other countries. He emphasized that the Maldives conducts its foreign relations sincerely and expects the same in return.
When asked about balancing ties with India, China, and the US, Mohamed stated that all these countries are important partners for the Maldives. Despite a recent reduction of Indian soldiers in the Maldives, following President Muizzu’s “India out” campaign, Mohamed said relations with India are still good and improving.
An upcoming visit from India’s external relations minister is expected to further strengthen these ties.
US-Maldives Relations
The relationship between the US and the Maldives has become very strong, with both countries recently opening embassies in each other’s territories. The Maldives’ economic minister is expected to visit the US next month to discuss a trade and investment agreement.
The US has also been assisting the Maldives with climate change projects, renewable energy, and debt management.
The Maldives hopes to see more US investment, especially in its tourism sector, which saw around 76,000 US visitors last year. Ambassador Mohamed highlighted the importance of peace and stability for the Maldives, given its reliance on tourism. He reassured that the Maldives would not engage in any actions that could create regional problems.
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