Maldives, with its new China-friendly president, expects boost in investment as Beijing looks to ‘seize the opportunity’
- New Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu is considered more pro-China than his India-leaning predecessor Ibrahim Mohamed Solih
- Hong Kong-based honorary vice-consul Vijay Harilela sees potential for further collaboration in renewable energy projects amid a carbon neutral push
The Maldives expects to see more investment from China in energy infrastructure and tourism facilities after hosting a Chinese special envoy this week, a Maldivian diplomat said as the country inaugurated a Beijing-friendly president.
Renewable energy would be high on the investment agenda for the tiny archipelagic nation, a tourism hotspot that is counting down toward a low-pollution target, Hong Kong-based honorary vice-consul Vijay Harilela told the Post on Thursday.
Rising sea levels also threaten parts of the Maldives, prompting the construction of an artificial island north of the capital.
China’s expertise in renewable energy technologies can contribute to the development of solar and wind energy projects in the Maldives
“There is potential for further collaboration in renewable energy projects, as the Maldives aims to become carbon neutral by 2030,” Harilela said.
“China’s expertise in renewable energy technologies can contribute to the development of solar and wind energy projects in the Maldives.”
China is aiming to boost renewable energy projects as part of its Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to build infrastructure in dozens of countries and smooth out trade routes.
The Maldives would give Chinese investors further “opportunities” in hotel resort development, water sports, eco-tourism and travel agencies, Harilela added.
