"No Zero-Sum Game": China Emphasizes Equal Partnership with Maldives Amid India Row

In a recent editorial, China's state media outlet, Global Times, highlighted China's commitment to treating the Maldives as an equal partner and respecting its sovereignty. The editorial comes as Maldives' President Mohamed Muizzu visits Beijing to sign bilateral agreements.

The visit takes place amidst a diplomatic row between India and the Maldives. The Maldivian government has suspended three ministers for making derogatory comments about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the Lakshadweep islands. The Maldives government has distanced itself from these comments, stating that they were the personal opinions of the ministers and not reflective of the government's views.

Tensions between India and the Maldives have been strained since President Muizzu assumed office. Perceived as pro-China, Muizzu defeated his India-friendly predecessor in the presidential run-off in September. However, Global Times emphasized that China respects the friendly and cooperative relationship between the Maldives and India, and does not view cooperation between the two nations as unfriendly or a threat.

The editorial also expressed China's willingness to engage in trilateral cooperation between China, India, and the Maldives. It urged New Delhi to adopt a more open-minded approach, stating that China's cooperation with South Asian countries is not a zero-sum game.

Mr. Muizzu and his wife, Sajidha Mohamed, visited the Xiamen Free Trade Zone in China's Fujian province on the day of his arrival. They were presented with an introductory video by representatives from the trade zone. The Maldivian President is scheduled to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and sign multiple agreements.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin stated that this visit marks a new historical starting point for China-Maldives relations. He expressed optimism that the two heads of state would provide strategic guidance to take the bilateral relations to new heights.

President Muizzu's decision to visit Turkey instead of India for his first official overseas trip was deemed unconventional by Global Times, which traditionally expects new leaders to prioritize visits to India due to the bilateral ties and geographic proximity.

China's growing influence in the Maldives is evident through its significant investments in major infrastructure projects in the archipelago nation. However, Global Times emphasized China's respect for the Maldives' relationship with India and the importance for Male, the capital of the Maldives, to maintain good ties with New Delhi.

As President Muizzu's visit to China progresses, it is anticipated that the agreements signed between the two nations will further solidify their partnership and contribute to the development of the Maldives.