Cash-strapped Pakistan extends a helping hand to the Maldives, pledging support for their development needs amid strained relations with India

Cash-strapped Pakistan pledges support to the Maldives amidst strained India-Maldives relations. Maldivian President Muizzu assures collaboration, highlighting development needs. Meanwhile, India maintains financial support despite diplomatic tensions, allocating Rs 600 crore in the interim budget. Finance Minister Sitharaman emphasizes domestic tourism, focusing on Lakshadweep's development. The anti-India stance in Maldives prompts a political standoff and concerns over a Chinese research vessel's presence.

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In a significant geopolitical development, Pakistan has extended a helping hand to the Maldives amidst uneasy ties between the island nation and India. The assurance of support came during a telephonic conversation between Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu and Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. The leaders delved into various ways to strengthen bilateral ties, with a particular emphasis on addressing the pressing development needs of the Maldives, as stated by Muizzu's office in an official statement.

This strategic move by Pakistan coincides with its own economic challenges and a looming general election. Notably, Pakistan, a close ally of China, is diversifying its alliances, aligning more closely with Beijing, thus distancing from its longstanding friendship with India.

In contrast, India, despite strained relations with the Maldives, continues its support for the island nation. The interim budget for the financial year allocates Rs 600 crore to the Maldives, reinforcing India's commitment to providing assistance in the face of geopolitical tensions. This financial support aims to contribute to public welfare, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief.

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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in the Union Budget 2024, underscores the significance of domestic tourism, focusing on the development of Lakshadweep. The region, central to the India-Maldives diplomatic row, holds substantial tourism potential. Investments in port connectivity, infrastructure, and amenities are proposed to harness this potential, generating employment opportunities across various sectors.

Tensions between India and the Maldives escalated after President Muizzu's anti-India stance and calls for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel. The political standoff includes an impeachment motion against Muizzu, criticized for pivoting toward China. India also expresses concern over a Chinese research vessel in Maldivian waters, citing potential espionage. The diplomatic landscape remains complex, with global powers navigating alliances in this evolving geopolitical scenario.