BEIJING: China expressed its intention on Monday to bolster ties with the Maldives after President Mohamed Muizzu’s party, known for its pro-Beijing stance, achieved a significant victory in parliamentary elections in the strategic Indian Ocean nation.
The Maldives, renowned for its luxurious tourist attractions and strategic location along international shipping routes, is increasingly aligning with Beijing’s sphere of influence following the election outcome.
Muizzu’s People’s National Congress (PNC) secured over two-thirds of the seats in the 93-member parliament during Sunday’s elections.
“China is willing to work with the Maldives to maintain traditional friendship, expand exchanges, and cooperation in various fields,” stated Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin on Monday.
As a stand-in for pro-China former president Abdulla Yameen, who was recently freed after a court reversed his corruption conviction, 45-year-old Muizzu previously won the presidential election in September of last year.
Muizzu’s electoral victories have centered on challenging India’s former political influence in the Maldives.
In January, Muizzu visited Beijing, where he signed multiple agreements covering infrastructure, energy, marine, and agricultural projects with China, which is the Maldives’ largest external creditor.
Wang Wenbin emphasized China’s commitment to “continuously deepen the China-Maldives comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership” and “accelerate construction of a community with a shared future for China and the Maldives, benefiting both peoples.”
Muizzu’s party has benefited significantly from China’s Belt and Road infrastructure program, a key component of President Xi Jinping’s efforts to enhance China’s global influence.
China’s expanding role in regional elections was also evident last week in the Solomon Islands, where the incumbent prime minister, known for his pro-Beijing stance, faced challenges in securing an election majority.
The election outcome in the Solomon Islands is closely watched as it could have substantial implications for Beijing’s engagement in the South Pacific region, with President Xi Jinping’s administration actively seeking strategic allies in the area.
