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Facing a decline in tourism from India amid the ongoing row, the Maldives has turned to China in hopes of bolstering visitor numbers. President Mohamed Muizzu, currently on an official visit to China, made a direct appeal to the country's business community, urging them to "intensify" efforts to send more tourists to the island nation.
Muizzu emphasised the longstanding ties between the two countries, calling China the Maldives' "closest ally and development partner."
He highlighted China's role as the Maldives' top pre-pandemic tourism market, stating, "It is my request that we intensify efforts for China to regain this position."
This diplomatic charm offensive comes against the backdrop of a significant drop in Indian tourism to the Maldives. Recent derogatory remarks by Maldivian officials, who are now suspended, about Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and India over a tourism pitch for Lakshadweep sparked outrage and boycott calls among Indian citizens.
The controversy led to widespread cancellations of travel plans and even prompted online travel agency EaseMyTrip to temporarily suspend flights to the Maldives.
In 2023, India stood as the top source of tourists for the Maldives, with over 209,000 arrivals. China followed closely behind with nearly 187,000 visitors.
Recognising China's potential to fill the tourism gap, Muizzu also expressed the Maldives' interest in joining China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) project. The two countries have already signed a $50 million agreement to develop an integrated tourism zone in the Maldives.
Maldives is looking to China as a crucial partner in reviving its vital tourism industry. The success of this strategy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the idyllic beaches and turquoise waters of the Maldives will continue to hold immense allure for travellers from all corners of the globe.
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