Maldives defies Indian concerns, set to host Chinese research vessel amid rising tensions

In a clear demonstration of President Mohammed Muizzu's pro-China stance, the Maldives is set to host a Chinese research vessel, Xiang Yang Hong 03, for an ocean survey in the Indian Ocean Region, raising concerns in India. Indian military officials have confirmed monitoring the vessel's movement, expressing New Delhi's longstanding concerns over Chinese research vessels entering the Indian Ocean. While officially non-military, these vessels have sparked worry globally, including from the US, regarding potential military applications of their research. In response to India's concerns, Sri Lanka recently imposed a one-year moratorium on the entry of all foreign research vessels. Despite New Delhi's warnings, the Maldives has decided to allow entry to the Chinese vessel. President Muizzu has further escalated tensions by urging the removal of all 88 Indian military personnel from the island nation by March.