World

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.

Also read: Al-Qaida-Linked Extremists Capture 4 Ukrainians After UN Helicopter Crash in Somalia

“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.

Kavya Bhatt

Recent Posts

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Inaugurates Jamia Millia Islamia’s 105th Foundation Day & Six-Day ‘Talimi Mela’

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju inaugurated Jamia Millia Islamia’s 105th Foundation Day celebrations and the six-day…

10 hours ago

PM Modi To Unveil 25 E-Buses At Statue Of Unity; Strengthening India’s First E-City Vision

PM Modi will inaugurate 25 new E-buses in Gujarat, on October 31, coinciding with Sardar…

10 hours ago

Nothing Is Affordable Phone 3a Lite: Launch, Design & Key Features

Nothing Phone 3a Lite offers sleek design, 5G performance, and affordability with modern features.

12 hours ago

Pakistan Approves Over 2,100 Visas For Indian Sikhs To Attend Gurpurab 2025

The Pakistan High Commission has granted over 2,100 visas to Indian Sikh pilgrims to attend…

12 hours ago

PM Modi Showcases India’s Maritime Progress; Calls For Global Partnerships

PM Modi urged global investors to invest in India’s growing maritime sector amid global trade…

13 hours ago

Rain Halts India’s Charge As First T20I Against Australia Called Off In Canberra

Persistent rain forced the abandonment of the first T20I between India and Australia at Canberra’s…

13 hours ago