In a significant political shift, Mohamed Muizzu, the Mayor of Male and the candidate from the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), has been elected as the new leader of the Maldives. This transition raises questions about the future direction of the country, particularly in its foreign relations and economic strategies.
President Ibu Solih faced defeat in the elections primarily due to several factors. These included anti-incumbency sentiments, concerns regarding economic recovery post-COVID-19, internal divisions within his party (MDP), and the perception of "sovereignty" issues highlighted by Muizzu’s party.
The "India out" campaign, spearheaded by the PPM under Muizzu, aims to remove Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives. This campaign has stirred debates regarding the implications for national security and foreign policy.
During the tenure of former President Abdulla Yameen, relations between India and the Maldives soured, as Yameen leaned towards strengthening ties with China. This shift raised alarms about potential "debt traps" from Chinese investments in infrastructure.
In contrast, President Solih's administration adopted an "India First" approach, which sought to enhance bilateral relations. This included Indian support during the pandemic and collaborations on various infrastructure initiatives.
As the newly elected leader, Muizzu faces substantial economic challenges, particularly concerning debt repayments. Additionally, he must navigate complex geopolitical dynamics involving major powers like India, China, and the United States.
A notable upcoming event is the referendum proposed by former President Mohamed Nasheed, which will determine whether the Maldives should revert to a parliamentary system from its current presidential setup. This decision could significantly influence future governance.
For both India and the Maldives, it is crucial to avoid viewing their strategic interests as a "zero-sum" game. A balanced approach is essential for maintaining fruitful relations with various nations while ensuring national interests are safeguarded.
Following the election, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was quick to congratulate President-elect Muizzu. However, New Delhi has emphasized the importance of remaining neutral and not favoring specific factions within Maldivian politics.
The Maldives plays an active role in international discussions, evidenced by the election of Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid as the President of the UN General Assembly, with support from India.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) represents China's ambition to enhance global trade connectivity through infrastructure development. This initiative has raised concerns about the "debt trap," where borrowing countries face unsustainable debt levels.
To prevent falling into a "debt trap," countries should ensure transparency in loan agreements, assess the economic viability of projects, and diversify their funding sources. Engaging with international institutions like the IMF and World Bank can also provide necessary support.
Q1. Who is the new leader of the Maldives?
Answer: The new leader of the Maldives is Mohamed Muizzu, elected in 2023, representing the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).
Q2. What challenges does Mohamed Muizzu face after his election?
Answer: Muizzu faces economic challenges, particularly in managing debt repayments and navigating complex geopolitical interests involving major powers like India and China.
Q3. What was President Solih's foreign policy approach?
Answer: President Solih adopted an "India First" policy, enhancing relations with India through cooperation on various infrastructure projects and support during the pandemic.
Q4. What is the "India out" campaign?
Answer: The "India out" campaign, led by the PPM, aims to expel Indian military personnel from the Maldives, raising concerns over national sovereignty.
Q5. What is the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?
Answer: The BRI is China's global development strategy aimed at enhancing trade connectivity through infrastructure projects, but it has raised concerns about accumulating debt for borrowing countries.
Question 1: Who was elected as the new leader of the Maldives in 2023?
A) Ibu Solih
B) Mohamed Muizzu
C) Abdulla Yameen
D) Mohamed Nasheed
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What does the "India out" campaign advocate for?
A) Increasing Indian military presence
B) Expelling Indian military personnel
C) Strengthening ties with India
D) Promoting bilateral trade with India
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What policy did President Solih follow regarding India?
A) Isolationist policy
B) India First policy
C) Pro-China policy
D) Neutral policy
Correct Answer: B
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