Maldives President Asserts Independence: ‘We Aren’t In Anyone’s Backyard’ Amidst Diplomatic Tensions with India

Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, returning from a five-day state visit to China, stood firm in the face of diplomatic tensions with India, emphasizing that the nation’s size does not justify bullying. Muizzu, recognized as a pro-China leader, addressed the media without explicitly naming any country, amid a dispute with India regarding derogatory social media posts by three Maldivian ministers directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Highlighting the significance of the Maldives’ vast exclusive economic zone of 900,000 square km, Muizzu asserted that despite being a small island nation, they hold a considerable stake in the Indian Ocean. He stated that the Indian Ocean belongs to all countries within it, subtly challenging India’s role.

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“We aren’t in anyone’s backyard. We are an independent and sovereign state,” Muizzu declared, emphasizing the Maldives’ autonomy. During his visit to China, Muizzu signed 20 agreements with President Xi Jinping, securing USD 130 million in assistance for the Maldives. A joint statement from the talks emphasized mutual support in safeguarding core interests and opposing external interference in the Maldives’ internal affairs. The president’s defiant stance reflects a diplomatic balancing act as the Maldives navigates its relationships with regional powers.