Amidst diplomatic tensions and boycott calls by Indian tourists, Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu has sought to strengthen economic ties with China by urging Beijing to intensify efforts to attract tourists for tourism to the island nation. During his five-day visit to China, Muizzu, known for his pro-China stance, hailed Beijing as the Maldives’ “closest” ally and emphasized the importance of collaboration.
In a readout posted on his official website, President Muizzu praised China as the island nation’s key partner and requested increased investment. Notably, he highlighted the pre-Covid era when China held the position of the Maldives’ number one tourism market. Muizzu urged both nations to work together to restore China’s status as the primary source of tourists for the Maldives.
Despite the positive rhetoric, Muizzu’s appeal for enhanced Chinese tourism coincides with a period of diplomatic strain. Derogatory remarks made by some Maldivian ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led to widespread condemnation and cancellations of reservations by Indian tourists. In response, the Maldives government suspended three deputy ministers responsible for the offensive social media posts.
Acknowledging the significance of tourism in the Maldives, Muizzu’s administration has taken steps to address the situation. The suspension of ministers and condemnation from the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) reflect efforts to mitigate the impact of derogatory comments on the tourism sector.
During his visit to China, reports emerged about the signing of a USD 50 million project aimed at developing an integrated tourism zone in the Maldives. This signals ongoing collaboration between China and the Maldives, particularly in the field of infrastructure development and tourism.
Muizzu, speaking at the Maldives Business Forum in Fujian Province, praised China’s transformative infrastructure projects initiated through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in the Maldives. He underscored the strategic partnership between the two nations and the positive impact of Chinese investments on the Maldivian economy.
Despite India traditionally holding the position of the largest tourist market for the Maldives, Muizzu’s government is keen on diversifying and revitalizing tourism from China. The president’s pro-China stance aligns with efforts to strengthen bilateral economic ties, including the swift implementation of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed with China.
As the Maldives navigates diplomatic complexities, Muizzu’s appeal for increased Chinese tourism emphasizes the economic significance of diversifying tourism sources. Balancing diplomatic relationships with economic interests remains a challenge for the Maldives as it seeks to attract visitors and stimulate economic growth.