Maldives' PNC Party Wins Landslide Victory, Shifting Country Closer to China
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu's party, the People's National Congress (PNC), won a landslide victory in parliamentary elections, securing 71 of 93 seats and a total of 75 seats with coalition partners.
The main opposition Maldives Democratic Party saw its seats reduced to 12 from 65.
Muizzu, who has pledged to end the "India First" policy, has been courting China, leading to speculation that the Maldives will move closer to Beijing and away from traditional partner India.
The election results were met with celebrations from jubilant voters.
Both China and India have been vying for influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Maldives' president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (Muizzu), has asked Indian military personnel to leave the country, raising concerns about a shift towards China.
Muizzu's government is eager to explore partnerships under China's Belt and Road Initiative, including airport and port expansions.
Chinese firms have invested $1.37 billion in the Maldives in the last decade, making China the largest bilateral creditor.
Muizzu aims to pursue a more balanced foreign policy and forge diversified relations but is not expected to sever ties with India.
Muizzu's presidency was not affected by recent elections.
Muizzu, who has pledged to end the "India First" policy, has been courting China, leading to speculation that the Maldives will move closer to Beijing and away from traditional partner India.
The election results were met with celebrations from jubilant voters.
Both China and India have been vying for influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Maldives' president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih (Muizzu), has asked Indian military personnel to leave the country, raising concerns about a shift towards China.
Muizzu's government is eager to explore partnerships under China's Belt and Road Initiative, including airport and port expansions.
Chinese firms have invested $1.37 billion in the Maldives in the last decade, making China the largest bilateral creditor.
Muizzu aims to pursue a more balanced foreign policy and forge diversified relations but is not expected to sever ties with India.
Muizzu's presidency was not affected by recent elections.
Translation:
Translated by AI
