The recent arrival of the vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3, ostensibly for a routine port at Maldives call involving personnel rotation and replenishment, has sparked diplomatic tensions, particularly in Delhi. Despite the official explanation, concerns linger regarding the true motives behind the ship’s presence, ranging from perceived diplomatic slights to suspicions of data collection endeavors potentially benefiting Chinese military operations, particularly in submarine warfare.
Chinese experts, however, have sought to downplay these concerns. Zhou Bo, a former Senior Colonel of the People’s Liberation Army, contends that Chinese ships engage in legitimate scientific research activities in the Indian Ocean. He emphasizes the routine necessity for replenishment during prolonged voyages, dismissing India’s apprehensions as unwarranted.
China experts, however, have shrugged off their concerns.
“The Chinese ships carry out scientific research work in the Indian ocean. Its activities on the high sea are entirely legitimate,” Zhou Bo, a former People’s Liberation Army Senior Colonel, told the BBC.
“Sometimes the ships need replenishment – like fuel, food and water. So, they berth in a third country port, which is normal. So, the Indian government shouldn’t make any fuss about it. The Indian Ocean is not India’s Ocean,” asserted Mr Zhou, who is now with the Tsinghua university in Beijing.
Source: Getty Images
Maldives ultimatum on troops deepens row with India
Nevertheless, China’s maritime activities in the Indian Ocean have drawn scrutiny from neighboring nations on multiple occasions. Previous visits by Chinese naval submarines and research vessels to Sri Lanka, despite India’s objections, underscore China’s expanding presence in the region. These developments highlight the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean, where China has made significant inroads economically and strategically, particularly in Sri Lanka and now possibly in the Maldives.
In Sri Lanka, the Xiang Yang Hong 3’s intended visit to Colombo for replenishment was postponed amid growing concerns and objections from India. Sri Lanka’s decision to halt the research vessels’ visit is perceived as a response to India’s strong objections to Chinese incursions into its traditional sphere of influence.
The Maldives, traditionally under India’s sphere of influence, has witnessed a significant shift in its geopolitical stance under President Mohamed Muizzu. His pro-China stance, marked by calls for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel and the refusal to renew agreements with India, signals a departure from the Maldives’ historical alignment.
Source: Getty Images
Maldivians debate India’s boycott of their Nation
The Maldives’ pivot towards China, characterized by high-profile visits and infrastructure projects, has strained relations with Delhi. India views the Maldives as strategically vital and has expressed concerns about China’s growing influence in the island nation.
The situation in the Maldives underscores the delicate balance between regional power dynamics and internal political pressures. While some support the government’s alignment with China, opposition voices caution against antagonizing India, highlighting the Maldives’ dependence on Indian aid, support, and technological expertise.
The geopolitical implications extend beyond bilateral relations, as the Maldives finds itself caught in the crosshairs of Asian superpower rivalry. As China expands its maritime reach, India faces the challenge of preserving its strategic interests while navigating complex diplomatic waters.
Looking ahead, the evolving dynamics between India, China, and the Maldives will shape the geopolitical landscape of the Indian Ocean. China’s strategic ambitions and expanding naval forces signal the likelihood of increased presence in the region, raising concerns for India’s strategic security.
In conclusion, the recent developments surrounding the vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 underscore broader geopolitical tensions and strategic calculations in the Indian Ocean region. As nations vie for influence and navigate shifting alliances, the future of regional dynamics remains uncertain, with implications far beyond the shores of the Maldives and Sri Lanka. India faces the challenge of countering China’s growing assertiveness while preserving its strategic interests in the Indian Ocean, a task that will require deft diplomacy and strategic foresight.
