News Desk
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu concluded his pivotal state visit to China, revealing a strategic move towards strengthening ties with Beijing in a press conference upon his return to Male’. The president highlighted significant achievements, particularly emphasizing the success of the investment forum, which saw participation from around 300 companies and marked a historic milestone for the country.
During official talks with President Xi, the Chinese government pledged a substantial grant of USD 130 million to the Maldives. President Muizzu announced that these funds would be directed towards the reconstruction of roads in Male’ city, hinting at broader applications without providing explicit details.
While specifics of the agreements with China were scant, President Muizzu did not shy away from expressing intentions to disengage from the country’s closest neighbor, India. Notably, he unveiled plans to diversify staple imports, sourcing rice and flour from Turkey, with the first shipment expected in February. The president assured citizens of ample food supplies during Ramadan, promising distribution of 10 kg of rice and 10 kg of flour to each household.
In the realm of medical treatments, the president announced a shift away from reliance on India. Aasnadha, the national health insurance company, will expedite medical treatments in the UAE and Thailand, with the government covering airfare and accommodation expenses. Medicines, he stated, would now be sourced from Europe, introducing European-made pharmaceutical items to the Maldives.
President Muizzu addressed the issue of medical evacuation, revealing that Indian military helicopters would no longer be used after March. On the front of human resource development, he disclosed a substantial initiative by the Chinese government to provide 1000 scholarships for higher training and education in various fields over the next five years.
“We may be small, but that doesn’t give you the license to bully us,” President Muizzu
In a poignant English statement, President Muizzu declared, “We may be small, but that doesn’t give you the license to bully us,” underscoring the Maldives’ assertion of its sovereignty and commitment to pursuing an independent foreign policy. The president’s announcements signal a significant geopolitical shift for the Maldives, as it not only cements stronger ties with China but also marks a clear departure from traditional partnerships in favor of forging new alliances. The repercussions of these strategic moves will undoubtedly unfold in the coming months, shaping the future trajectory of the Maldives’ diplomatic and economic landscape.
