This article discusses the recent signing of a Defense and Security Relationship framework between the United States (US) and the Maldives. This development is seen as an evolution of the increasing alignment between the US and India in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the Indo-Pacific.
A Step Forward for Peace and Security
The primary purpose of the framework is to intensify engagement and cooperation to safeguard peace and security in the Indian Ocean. This agreement represents significant progress in defense collaboration between the US and the Maldives, emphasizing their shared commitment to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region that supports the security and wellbeing of all nations involved.
The framework sets out a variety of bilateral activities, encompassing high-level dialogues and engagements in areas such as maritime domain awareness, disaster response, and humanitarian relief operations.
India’s Perspective on the Framework
Although there hasn’t been an official response from India towards this announcement, it can be viewed as a timely message to China, especially given the ongoing standoff between Indian and Chinese troops at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh.
China’s presence and influence in the IOR have consistently been a concern for India, prompting it to strengthen its strategic presence in both the IOR and the Indo-Pacific. The Quad, formed by the US, Japan, India, and Australia, aligns with this objective, potentially aiming to contain China’s influence in the region.
Strategic Partnerships and Exercises
Several other measures, such as the Malabar Exercise to enhance the shared aim of a free, prosperous Indo-Pacific, the Track 1.5 dialogue between India, France, and Australia to pinpoint security challenges and sustainability issues in the Indo-Pacific region, and Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement between India and Japan allowing their armed forces to coordinate closely in services and supplies, underline India’s efforts to bolster presence in these regions.
Implications of the Framework on Sino-Maldives Relations
The framework could potentially dull the security-related cooperation between China and the Maldives, even as economic collaboration continues. Notably, in 2017, the Maldives committed to China’s Belt and Road initiative, becoming a part of the Maritime Silk Route.
India views this pact beneficially due to her ties with the US. As its direct engagement in Maldivian security matters often incites domestic suspicion, India sees the framework as a useful indirect route for involvement if necessary.
