The Maldives has reportedly signed a military cooperation agreement with China, further indicating a shift away from its traditional ally, India. The exact terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but it suggests that the Maldives is aligning more closely with China in its geopolitical positioning.
This deal comes amid a power struggle in the Maldives, which has seen a move towards more authoritarian rule. Since 2013, the nation has seen the impeachment of a president, a crackdown on political rivals, and the declaration of a state of emergency.
This power shift may be a concern for India, as the Maldives is historically within its sphere of influence. The island nation is strategically located in the Indian Ocean, which makes it an important point of geopolitical interest. With Chinese investment growing in the Maldives, including the construction of a bridge linking the capital to an island, it’s clear that China’s influence is increasing.
As China continues to extend its Belt and Road Initiative throughout the Asia-Pacific region, strategic partnerships like this one will likely continue to be formed. This geopolitical shift could potentially alter the regional power balance, warranting attention from not only India but other international powers as well.
Maldives signs China military pact in further shift away from India
The Maldives has reportedly signed a military cooperation agreement with China, further indicating a shift away from its traditional ally, India. The exact terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but it suggests that the Maldives is aligning more closely with China in its geopolitical positioning.
This deal comes amid a power struggle in the Maldives, which has seen a move towards more authoritarian rule. Since 2013, the nation has seen the impeachment of a president, a crackdown on political rivals, and the declaration of a state of emergency.
This power shift may be a concern for India, as the Maldives is historically within its sphere of influence. The island nation is strategically located in the Indian Ocean, which makes it an important point of geopolitical interest. With Chinese investment growing in the Maldives, including the construction of a bridge linking the capital to an island, it’s clear that China’s influence is increasing.
As China continues to extend its Belt and Road Initiative throughout the Asia-Pacific region, strategic partnerships like this one will likely continue to be formed. This geopolitical shift could potentially alter the regional power balance, warranting attention from not only India but other international powers as well.
