China motivated by self-interest, Maldives can be used for military purposes: experts

Chinese experts have raised their concerns over the proposed Free Trade Agreement between the Maldives and People’s Republic of China.

Speaking to South China Morning Post, Shanghai Academy of Social Science’s Institute of International Relations expert, Hu Ziyong said that the development of Hulhumale’ was part of President Xi Jinping’s Belt and Road initiative, which will create more opportunities for the Chinese.

He also noted that this also increase the possibility that Maldives can be used as a military outpost for China, for the nation’s navy active in the Indian Ocean. Both India and China are beefing up activity in the Indian Ocean, especially more pronounced now.

While both countries had boasted of increased investment in the Maldives, it has to be noted that most of the investments greatly benefited the Chinese. In addition to Hulhumale’ development, China had greatly invested in developing the China Maldives Friendship Bridge, as well as land reclamation and tourism sector.

In terms of volume, China is the biggest market for tourism. However, the numbers are decreasing, with experts predicting this will decrease in the coming years.

President Abdullah Yameen is currently in China on an invitational trip of his counterpart President Xi Jinping.