New Delhi: In a diplomatic development, Chinese President Xi Jinping engaged in discussions with his Maldivian counterpart, Mohamed Muizzu on Wednesday.The metting led to the signing of 20 crucial agreements signifying the elevation of their bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership, state-run Xinhua news agency reported. The signing ceremony, witnessed by both Presidents, marked a pivotal moment in the diplomatic relations between China and the Maldives. The scope of the agreements encompasses various domains, fortifying the cooperative foundation between the two nations.Chinas diplomatic gestures President Muizzu, accompanied by his wife Sajida Mohammad, received a ceremonial welcome at the prestigious Great Hall of People in Beijing. The warm reception included a red carpet welcome and a 21-gun salute, underscoring the significance of the diplomatic visit. President Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, reciprocated the gesture by hosting a grand state banquet in honour of President Muizzu and his delegation.Diplomatic visit amid regional tensionsPresident Muizzus state visit to China unfolds against the backdrop of a diplomatic row with India. Recent derogatory remarks by Maldivian ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and a contentious EU Election Observation Mission report have strained relations. The report alleges anti-India sentiments and disinformation efforts by the ruling coalition in the 2023 presidential elections, which saw Muizzu emerge victorious.Maldives going for a pro-China stanceKnown for his pro-China stance, President Muizzus visit comes at a time when derogatory comments by Maldivian ministers have led to cancellations of Indian tourist reservations, impacting the tourism-dependent nation. President Muizzus itinerary includes talks with Premier Li Qiang and other high-ranking Chinese officials. The discussions aim to further solidify diplomatic ties and explore avenues for collaboration. The President is expected to conclude his visit and return to Male on January 12.Appeal to boost tourism, bilateral tradeIn a recent address to the Maldives Business Forum, President Muizzu urged China to intensify efforts to boost tourism, emphasising the historically significant position of China as the Maldives primary tourism market. Despite the current diplomatic strains, Muizzu acknowledged China as one of their closest allies and development partners.Implementing FTAPresident Muizzu affirmed his commitment to the swift implementation of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed with China in 2014. The FTA aims to enhance bilateral trade and investments, particularly in the export of fish products to China. Muizzu sees the FTA as a pivotal symbol of the robust commercial ties between the two nations.Bilateral trade between China and the Maldives in 2022 amounted to USD 451.29 million, with Chinas exports dominating the figure. President Muizzu also sought investments from Chinese companies for 11 projects, showcasing the Maldives Investment Forum as a platform for economic collaboration.
