Maldives President Seeks Chinese Tourist Boost Amid India Tensions

Maldives president Mohamed Muizzu requested China to increase tourist flow to the country amid a diplomatic spat with India, praising China as its "closest" ally and seeking investments for various projects. The request comes after derogatory remarks by Maldivian ministers against Indian Prime Minister Modi led to the suspension of three deputy ministers and condemnation from the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry. Muizzu emphasized the importance of diversifying the country's economic base and quick implementation of the Free Trade Agreement with China.