The President of the Maldives, along with the First Lady, embarked on a journey to China for a state visit triggered by an invitation from the Chinese leadership. This visit is shadowed by rising diplomatic frictions with India, once a close ally and a significant contributor to Maldivian tourism. As a matter of policy, the Maldivian administration distanced itself from some social media disputes that involved high-ranking officials making undiplomatic comments about foreign leaders.
Notably, this episode of controversial commentary on social media has resulted in the suspension of selected officials in the Maldives government. This development has sparked various reactions, including the cancellation of holiday bookings to the Maldives by Indian tourists, as well as a surge in domestic tourism promotion within India. Coupled with this, the Maldivian leader’s election platform and actions appear to have a pro-China orientation, which is in stark contrast to the previous administration’s India-centric approach. This change in direction has magnified the geopolitical competition between India and China in the region.
India’s role as a major economic booster for the Maldives through tourism and historic ties has been challenged as the Maldivian leadership shifts its focus towards China. As part of China’s expansive Belt and Road Initiative, the Maldives has been drawn deeper into the realm of Chinese influence. This visit by the Maldivian president and the anticipated agreements that may follow underscore a significant recalibration of alliances and influence in the Indian Ocean.