Nestled amidst the shimmering waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives, with its picturesque atolls and reefs, is more than just a tourist paradise. Over the years, this archipelago has evolved into a geopolitical hotspot, with its recent leadership transition marking a potential shift in the delicate balance of power dynamics in the region. At the center of this geopolitical dance is Mohamed Muizzu, whose presidency and policies are under scrutiny for their potential to reshape the India-China equation.

To comprehend the current geopolitical nuances surrounding the Maldives, one must delve into its historical engagements with major regional players, primarily India and China. The Maldives, strategically positioned along vital sea lanes, has always been of interest to these Asian giants. These sea routes are not merely channels of maritime trade but also corridors of geopolitical influence, making the Maldives’ strategic significance undeniable. The era under President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih witnessed a pronounced tilt towards India. Characterized by the “India First” policy, this period saw an uptick in bilateral engagements encompassing defense........

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