Foreign Minister Mohamed Asim has assured neighboring ally India that the ties between the two nations will not be severed over China-Maldives free trade agreement.
Asim had assured the diplomatic ties and internal policies binding India and Maldives as well as other countries will not be strained over Maldives taking assistance from China.
Tension between India and China - both regarded as economic monoliths in South-Asian and East-Asian regions respectively - have been at intense levels with several international analysts speculating a possible 'power-play' by both nations to grab substantial hold in Indian Ocean. The situation had seemingly grossed to further sensitivity when Maldivian president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom made his maiden visit to China on its leader Xi Jinping's request.
Both leaders had sat down to discuss diplomatic union of two countries while it had concluded with the inking of Maldives-China free trade agreement included among 12 agreements.
This new development of stronger ties between China and Maldives had led several analysts to place possibility of rising tension between India and China. However, in a recent press conference from India's External Affairs, the spokesperson of the entity Sri Ravish Kumar had said that while the exact details of the FTA has not been properly evaluated it would be understandable to experience the benefits that would come from such a trade deal.
He had also said that India is supportive towards any initiatives that would result in the economical progress in the region.
Meanwhile Foreign Minister Asim had stated, in an interview with Public Service Media (PSM) that the state prioritizes in bringing economical and social development to Maldives and would join hands with every country that works for such beneficial causes.
He also highlighted on the possible increase of developmental projects, new trade establishments and job opportunities that would result from China-Maldives FTA.
Asim also stressed on the long relationship between Maldives and India, adding both countries will be pooling resources to assist each other in military training ops, disaster management projects as well as health and academic advancements. He also emphasized on the importance of a sustaining relationship between the two countries.
Foreign Minister had assured that Maldives do not discriminate or favor diplomatic ties of any one nation over the other and always prioritize in putting the best interests of every aiding nation with Maldives.
