Indian and Sri Lankan coast guard ships joined the Maldives for the trilateral coast guard exercise Dosti 16. However, the presence of a Chinese vessel near Male port raised concerns about the security of the exercise.
Concerns Over Chinese Vessel’s Presence:
The Chinese vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 entered Maldives’ territorial waters ostensibly for research purposes. India expressed security concerns, leading the Maldives to restrict its activities to personnel rotation and replenishments.
Indian Diplomatic Efforts:
India had previously cautioned both Maldives and Sri Lanka about the Chinese vessel’s entry into the South Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka imposed a moratorium, but Maldives permitted the vessel’s entry despite Indian pressure and concerns.
Impact on Regional Security:
The presence of the Chinese vessel near the exercise area raises questions about maritime security. Concerns about espionage equipment onboard highlight potential threats to regional stability.
History of Exercise Dosti:
Exercise Dosti, initiated in 1991 between India and Maldives, expanded to include Sri Lanka in 2012. It focuses on sea accident response, pollution control, and coast guard procedures.
Objectives of Exercise Dosti 16:
The aim is to strengthen friendship, enhance operational capabilities, and promote interoperability among the Coast Guards of India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives.
Diplomatic Context:
The exercise occurs amid strained India-China relations and deteriorating ties between India and the Maldives due to the pro-China stance of President Mohamed Muizzu.
Recent Diplomatic Frictions:
Muizzu’s anti-India rhetoric, withdrawal requests for Indian military personnel, and refusal to renew agreements indicate shifting diplomatic alliances.
China’s Growing Influence:
Muizzu’s visit to China, participation in Chinese forums, and neglect of Indian ties signal a shift towards China’s sphere of influence.
Defense Cooperation Amidst Diplomatic Strains:
Despite diplomatic tensions, defense officials from India and the Maldives discussed enhancing military cooperation, highlighting the complex relationship dynamics.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the name of the trilateral coast guard exercise conducted between India, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives?
- A) Exercise Harmony
- B) Exercise Unity
- C) Exercise Dosti
- D) Exercise Alliance
- Answer: C) Exercise Dosti
- Which country expressed concerns over the presence of the Chinese vessel Xiang Yang Hong 3 in the South Indian Ocean?
- A) India
- B) Sri Lanka
- C) Maldives
- D) Bangladesh
- Answer: A) India
- What action did Sri Lanka take in response to India’s concerns about the Chinese vessel’s presence?
- A) Allowed unrestricted entry
- B) Imposed a moratorium on foreign research vessels
- C) Conducted joint military exercises with China
- D) Requested India’s assistance in maritime surveillance
- Answer: B) Imposed a moratorium on foreign research vessels
- Exercise Dosti primarily focuses on:
- A) Air defense strategies
- B) Counter-terrorism operations
- C) Maritime security and coast guard procedures
- D) Border disputes resolution
- Answer: C) Maritime security and coast guard procedures
- What recent diplomatic action strained India-Maldives relations?
- A) India’s tourism promotion in Lakshadweep
- B) Maldives’ participation in Chinese forums
- C) Withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives
- D) Disparaging remarks against Indian politicians
- Answer: A) India’s tourism promotion in Lakshadweep