The sun-kissed archipelago of Maldives, a strategic chess game unfolds as India and China vie for influence in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. Against this backdrop, India has played its latest move by gifting two state-of-the-art military ships to the Maldives, underscoring a diplomatic dance that involves not just ships but the geopolitics of the region.
The maritime contribution comprises a fast patrol vessel named ‘Huravee’ and a landing craft assault ship, both proudly crafted on Indian shores. The handover ceremony took place on Tuesday during the official visit of India’s Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, who is on a three-day diplomatic sojourn from May 1-3. The ships, symbolic of India’s commitment to bolstering regional security, were formally presented to the Maldives National Defence Forces (MNDF).
Adding a brick to the foundation of collaboration, Singh, along with his Maldivian counterpart Mariya Didi, laid the cornerstone for the MNDF Coast Guard ‘Ekatha Harbour.’ This endeavor, aimed at fortifying the maritime capabilities of the Maldives, stands as one of India’s most significant grant-in-aid projects in the archipelago.
A joint press communique released by both nations highlighted a shared commitment to deepening cooperation in defense and security. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, at a meeting with Singh, expressed appreciation for the strides made in hydrography surveys with India’s assistance and the provision of essential survey equipment.
Beyond the diplomatic exchanges, the spotlight of public interest in the Maldives is firmly fixed on India’s involvement in developing the Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF) harbor. This strategic base, housing a coastguard harbor and dockyard, is situated just northwest of the capital Male. Speculations abound about the military implications of India’s assistance in this venture.
President Solih, leading the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) since the sweeping victory in April 2019, faces opposition accusations. The Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), helmed by former President Abdulla Yameen, alleges Solih’s pro-Indian stance, while Yameen is accused of aligning with China’s interests during his tenure.
The geopolitical seesaw is not new to the Maldives, as evidenced by infrastructure projects inked with China during Yameen’s presidency, including participation in China’s ambitious ‘Belt and Road Initiative’ (BRI). However, recent history tips in India’s favor with the awarding of a key 6.7 km bridge-and-causeway connectivity project in 2021, linking Male with neighboring islands.
This infrastructure marvel, dwarfing the Maldives-China Friendship Bridge, signifies India’s increasing presence in the region. The Indian Ocean has become a focal point for China, with its naval activities expanding against the backdrop of the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) modernization.
As the maritime chessboard evolves, the gifting of military ships to the Maldives by India is a nuanced move in a complex geopolitical game. It is a tale of naval diplomacy, infrastructure prowess, and regional influence unfolding against the stunning backdrop of the Indian Ocean’s azure waters. The question remains: who will make the next strategic move in this geopolitically charged game? Only time will reveal the next chapter in this gripping saga.