Maldives secures military assistance deal with China amidst tensions with India

In a move that could escalate geopolitical tensions in the Indian Ocean region China and the Maldives inked a defense cooperation agreement on Monday. 

This agreement involves China providing complimentary military assistance to the Maldives, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations. The signing ceremony occurred weeks after Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu issued a deadline for the withdrawal of the initial batch of Indian military personnel from the island nation. 
The Defense Minister of the Maldives, Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, held discussions with Major General Zhang Baoqun, Deputy Director of the Office for International Military Cooperation of China. The meeting resulted in the signing of an agreement for China to offer free military assistance to the Republic of Maldives, with the intention of fostering stronger diplomatic relations. However, the specific details of the defense cooperation agreement were not disclosed.
Simultaneously, China displayed goodwill by presenting 12 eco-friendly ambulances to the Maldives. The Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Wang Lixin, formally handed over the ambulances in a ceremony held at the Ministry of Health on Sunday.
The timing of the Chinese military delegation's visit is noteworthy, particularly in light of the recent port call made by the advanced Chinese research ship, Xiang Yang Hong 03, in the Maldives. The purpose of this port call was officially cited as a routine rotation of personnel and replenishment. These developments unfold against the backdrop of India confirming the arrival of its initial civilian team of technical experts in the Maldives. This team is set to replace the Indian military personnel currently operating an advanced light helicopter in the country.
President Muizzu known for his pro-China stance, has set March 10 as the deadline for the withdrawal of the first group of Indian military personnel from the Maldives. The evolving situation raises concerns about the escalating strategic competition in the Indian Ocean, with the Maldives becoming a focal point for major powers vying for influence in the region.