China’s growing stake in Maldives is a challenge to its relations with India.

China has increased its economic and military presence in the Maldives in recent years. It has invested in several infrastructure projects in the Maldives, including airports, ports and roads. China has also provided military assistance to the Maldives, including arms and training.

The growing presence of China is a matter of concern for India. India considers Maldives as its regional sphere of influence and does not want China to strengthen its position there.

China’s stake creates many challenges in Maldives’ relations with India. Some of these challenges include:

Increasing tension: The increasing presence of China may increase tension between India and Maldives. Both countries are competing for regional influence and China’s growing presence could pose a threat to India.

Financial Loans: China has extended several lines of credit to the Maldives. Due to these loans, Maldives may be heavily indebted to China, which may make it difficult for it to balance its relations with India.

Military cooperation: China has provided military assistance to Maldives. This could increase the military capability of Maldives, which could pose a threat to India’s regional security.

India is taking some measures to face these challenges. These measures include:

Strengthening bilateral relations with Maldives: India is working to strengthen its bilateral relations with Maldives. It has provided economic and development assistance to the Maldives and increased military cooperation between the two countries.
Negotiating with China: India is trying to negotiate with China so that the roles of both countries can be balanced in Maldives.
Cooperating with other countries in Maldives: India is trying to cooperate with other countries in Maldives to counter the growing presence of China.