The statement by Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer came in the wake of the Chinese marine research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 returning to the country’s waters.
The Maldivian government has “not permitted the Chinese vessel” to conduct research in Maldivian waters, according to Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer, who emphasised the importance of “peace and security” of the Indian Ocean for neighbouring countries, including India.
Following the Chinese maritime research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3’s return to Maldivian waters—its second visit to the archipelago nation in as many months—the Maldivian Foreign Minister issued a statement.
“India, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the other nations in our vicinity depend on the stability and security of the Indian Ocean. Thus, as I already stated, we will keep working together,” he remarked.
He went on to explain the port call for Chinese warships, saying, “Our government issued friendly portable permits and personal rotation permits, and diplomatic clearances came from the Chinese side, which is very common in Maldives.”
“That is the way it has transpired; as a peaceful nation, we welcome those vessels that arrive with good intentions. The Maldivian Foreign Minister, Moosa Zameer, stated that research vessels are not welcome in the Maldivian waters, but added, “But they didn’t come for research in the Maldivian waters, we have not permitted the Chinese vessel for research in the Maldivian waters.”
Following the People’s National Congress (PNC), led by pro-China Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, winning the parliamentary elections on Friday, the Chinese marine research vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 made its second visit to the archipelago nation in as many months on April 27, as reported by Adhadhu news on Friday.
It is important to remember that last month, Maldivian Parliament was informed by Defence Minister Ghassan Maumoon that despite the Chinese vessel passing within and close to Maldivian seas, no research would be conducted.
“No authorization was granted to carry out any study on Maldivian territory. They changed personnel after mooring in Male’ and purchasing provisions. Those arriving by aeroplane boarded the boat, and those already on it departed via aircraft. That was the approval that was granted,” Mr. Maumoon was cited by Adhadhu on March 25.
Since President Muizzu assumed office in November, there has been tension between India and the Maldives as the administration has shifted its focus towards China.