Maldivian President Praises China Amid Diplomatic Row with India

Opposition Escalates Attacks on President Muizzu as Indian Tourist Boycott Looms

Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, currently on his first state visit to China, has praised Beijing as a 'valued ally and integral collaborator' of the Indian Ocean island nation.
The visit comes amid a major diplomatic row with India, triggered by derogatory remarks against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi by some Maldivian ministers.
Muizzu is due to hold talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and sign several agreements to bolster bilateral ties.
The Maldivian President's visit to China has been criticized by opposition leaders in the Maldives, who have called for his removal and are escalating attacks ahead of general elections this year.
Muizzu's praise of China's Belt and Road Initiative, which has delivered significant infrastructure projects in the Maldives, comes as the country faces a potential economic impact from a boycott by Indian tourists.