Amidst an acute water shortage in the Maldives, the Chinese government has donated 1,500 tonnes of drinking water from glaciers in Tibet.
Overview
The decision to provide this aid was made during the official visit of China’s Tibet Autonomous Region’s Chairman, Yan Jinhai, to the Maldives last November. The shipment, which has reached the archipelagic nation, is a significant relief for a country grappling with scarce freshwater resources exacerbated by climate change.
The Maldives, with its 26 atolls and 1,192 islands, faces significant challenges in accessing freshwater due to its composition of coral reefs and sandbars. Previous attempts to mitigate water scarcity, including UN-funded programs, have seen limited success.
The Maldivian Foreign Ministry has indicated that the donated water will be distributed to various islands facing drinking water shortages.
China boosts engagement with Maldives:
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) March 29, 2024
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Maldives-China Ties
The donation from China signifies the latest assistance in a series of pledges aimed at bolstering ties between the two nations. Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu’s pro-China stance since assuming office in November 2023 has led to various agreements, including the provision of free “non-lethal” military equipment and training from China’s military, being signed.
Historically, Chinese aid to the Maldives has focused on urban and economic development. However, the recent donation of drinking water underscores Beijing’s expanding role in addressing critical needs in the archipelago.
Maldives-India Ties
India, a close neighbor, has also played a role in addressing the Maldives’ water crises in the past. Operation Neer, carried out in December 2014, saw Indian aircraft and ships delivering thousands of tonnes of drinking water following a massive fire in the Malé Water and Sewerage Company complex.
The Maldives’ strategic location in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and its proximity to India highlight its significance in regional geopolitics. This latest aid from China not only addresses an immediate need but also strengthens bilateral relations in a region marked by competing interests.