Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 04:33pm on 10 Jan 2024,Wednesday International
Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu, viewed as a pro-China leader, meets President Xi Jinping in Beijing amid a diplomatic row with India. The visit follows tensions over derogatory remarks against Prime Minister Modi, leading to cancellations of Indian tourist reservations. Muizzu, accorded a red carpet welcome, praises China's Belt and Road Initiative in a speech. The nations reportedly sign a $50 million project for an integrated tourism zone. Seeking more Chinese tourists, Muizzu addresses the Maldives Business Forum. The visit aims to strengthen ties with one of their "closest allies and development partners," while India remains a significant tourism contributor.