Maldives' Relations: Balancing India and China
Operation Cactus, the Indian military intervention in the Maldives in November 1988, served as a defining moment, emphasizing the strategic significance of the Indian Ocean archipelago and India's pivotal role as a regional security provider.
The operation, a response to a coup attempt in the Maldives, underscored India's commitment as a reliable ally and its readiness to swiftly act as the first responder in times of regional crises. Within hours of receiving an SOS from the Maldivian government, Indian paratroopers were deployed to secure Malé, while Indian naval warships prevented mercenaries from escaping with hostages, including Maldivian ministers.
The intervention not only thwarted the attempted coup but also solidified India's stature as a principal security partner in the region. It emphasized the depth of India's strategic interest in the Maldives, showcasing its determination to ensure stability and protect its neighborhood.
Decades later, the Maldives continues to hold strategic importance in the region, as evident from the recent state visit of Maldives' President Mohamed Muizzu to China. During his visit, President Muizzu met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, signifying the Maldives' efforts to strengthen ties with multiple global players.
These diplomatic engagements highlight the archipelago's significance in the geopolitics of the Indian Ocean and its attempts to diversify partnerships while maintaining relationships with key regional powers.
Operation Cactus remains a pivotal historical event, symbolizing India's commitment to regional security and its role as a stabilizing force in the Indian Ocean region.
