Maldives Prez praises India, China for financial assistance

Maldives President Muizzu has thanked India and China for their financial support in strengthening the fragile economy of his county. The President said this on the occasion of 59 th anniversary of independence of his country. China and India provide the most assistance in repaying the country's debt, President Muizzu said on July 26 at an official function held to mark the 59th anniversary of the country's independence. Interestingly, Mr Muizzu came to power through an anti-India campaign last year. He sought the removal of around 80 Indian millitary personnel operating helicopters and Dornier aircraft donated by India. In an effort to sideline India, Mr Muizzi even visited China and tried to shift his country’s foreign policy. Muizzi at the function praised India for Rs 400 crore assistance to the island nation. Maldives has a debt to China amounting over $1.3 billion.