Chinese Research Ship Gains Clearance to Dock in Maldives

In a move likely to escalate an ongoing diplomatic dispute between the Maldives and India, the Maldivian government confirmed on Tuesday that it had granted clearance to a Chinese research vessel, the Xiang Yang Hong 3, to dock in its port. The announcement comes at a time when the tiny archipelago nation is already entangled in a spat with India, its giant neighbor.

The Maldives foreign ministry, in a statement, acknowledged that a diplomatic request had been made by the Chinese government for the necessary clearances to allow the research vessel to make a port call for personnel rotation and replenishment. The statement emphasized that the ship would not be conducting any research activities while docked in Male port. The Maldivian government assured that it has always been a welcoming destination for vessels of friendly countries, hosting both civilian and military vessels for peaceful purposes.

The timing of the ship’s arrival is significant, given the ongoing diplomatic dispute between the Maldives and India. The dispute began when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted pictures on social media showcasing his activities in Lakshadweep, an Indian archipelago with striking similarities to the Maldivian islands. The move was perceived by some in the Maldives as an attempt by Modi to divert tourists away from the renowned Maldivian beaches and resorts.

The diplomatic tension escalated as three deputy ministers from the Maldives posted derogatory remarks against Modi on social media, prompting calls in India for a boycott of the Maldives. The situation worsened when Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, on a visit to China, outlined plans to reduce dependence on India for health facilities, medicines, and staple imports.

Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, declared intentions to double the number of Chinese visitors, emphasizing that China respects the Maldives’ territorial integrity. This move is seen as part of the broader competition between India and China for influence in the Maldives, with both nations seeking strategic control in the Indian Ocean.

President Muizzu, elected in November, had campaigned on evicting Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives. Upon his return from China, he proposed a meeting with Indian officials to discuss the withdrawal of troops by mid-March. The dispute involves at least 75 Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives, accused by Muizzu of compromising national sovereignty.

India and China have been engaged in a power struggle over the Maldives, with India considering the nation within its sphere of influence, while China aims to enlist the Maldives as a partner in its Belt and Road initiative. The geopolitical tension in the region is underscored by Sri Lanka’s recent decision to impose a year-long moratorium on research ships docking in its ports, widely interpreted as a response to concerns raised by India over a planned visit by a Chinese ship. The region remains a focal point in the ongoing strategic rivalry between India and China, with the Maldives caught in the crossfire of competing interests.