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MALDIVES, CHINA COMMIT TO GREATER STRATEGIC COOPERATION
Why in the News?
- China and the Maldives signed 20 MoUs during President Muizzu’s visit.
Source: Britanica
Source: BritanicaAbout
- Both countries aim to establish a ‘China-Maldives Strategic Partnership’ from 2024 to 2028.
- China firmly opposes external interference in Maldives’ internal affairs.
- The joint press communiqué highlights the elevation of China-Maldives relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
- Areas of cooperation include blue economy, digital economy, disaster and risk mitigation, and news cooperation.
- The visit is significant in the context of recent tensions between the Maldives and India.
Geography of Maldives: A Strategic Hub in the Indian Ocean
- Unique Location: Maldives is strategically positioned in the Indian Ocean, serving as a significant point of entry for maritime traffic.
- Critical Sea Lanes: It lies at the crossroads of two crucial sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) in the southern and northern parts, facilitating maritime trade between the Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Hormuz in West Asia and the Strait of Malacca in Southeast Asia.
- Natural Features: The Maldives’ physical geography is characterized by extensive coral reefs and atolls, contributing to its distinct natural beauty.
- Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs): A substantial portion of the Maldives falls within Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), granting the country economic rights over these vast marine territories.
