Maldives President saluted China for its continued economic partnership and investment in the Maldives. Chinese investments play a significant role in our economy, particularly in the tourism and infrastructure sectors, President Muizzu added. He then requested Chinese help to boost tourist arrivals from their country.
Amidst declining numbers of Indian tourists due to bitter political relations, Maldivian authorities are seeking ways to mitigate this decrease through increased tourism from other nations. Despite being one of India’s closest maritime neighbors, bilateral ties soured after offensive remarks made by some of Maldivian government officials against Prime Minister Modi which led to a ripple effect, causing many Indians canceling planned vacations to the picturesque Indian Ocean island nation.
After these comments triggered outrage on social media websites across India, it began impacting people-to-people exchanges between two countries – most noticeably reflected via downturns within travel-based transactions.
The President further articulated the significant role that Chinese investment has played in the Maldivian economy, claiming it as a pivotal resource supporting sustainable development across multiple sectors. He went on to comment on how these investments have contributed substantially towards job creation and better living standards for his citizens.
Not only did he highlight economic contributions from China but also emphasized on cultural exchange between both nations, pointing out the diversity and rich traditions each country brings to this relationship. Our people enjoy learning about each other’s culture and history, said the President, encouraging increased student exchanges and tourism inflows post COVID-19.
China’s BRI projects include several landmark infrastructure landmarks such as bridges and highways, therefore boosting inter-island connectivity within Maldives which had been an issue in previous years- an advantage he accentuated during his speech.
Speaking of future plans, he expressed hopes for more collaboration mentioning potential areas like renewable energy technology transfer, healthcare improvements including possible cooperation regarding vaccinations against Covid-19.
Despite these tensions, Muizzu’s administration has maintained its commitment to strengthening economic partnerships with China. He highlighted the potential benefits of Chinese tourism in supporting local businesses, creating job opportunities and boosting infrastructure development in Maldivian communities.
Meanwhile, international observers have raised concerns about political instability impacting the bilateral relations between India and Maldives. They urged both countries to consider their shared interests in regional security while addressing these disputes. Back home, critics questioned Prime Minister Modi’s decision to film a video on a beach given India’s ongoing struggles against climate change.
However, MATI expressed hope that such controversies would not hamper flourishing Indo-Maldivian trade connections and cited several instances where disagreements were resolved diplomatically.
The tourism project is just one among many collaborations showcasing increasing levels of cooperation between Beijing and Malé despite resistance from certain corners within both nations.
In 2022, India continued to dominate the Maldives tourism market, welcoming 240,000 visitors. Russia was not far behind in the second position with a tourist count of 198,000. The United Kingdom held the third place with more than 177,000 tourists visiting Maldives. Prior to the COVID pandemic, China was leading with over 280,000 tourists but is now grappling to rejuvenate both its local and international tourism due to an almost four-year-long lockdown strategy and persistent economic downturn.
