Indian Ocean Region:
Major oil exports/trades in the Indian Ocean region is carried in between the Gulf of Aden and Strait of Malacca.
The Maldives are located in the center of these 2 regions.
A considerable amount of trade/cargo passes through Maldives.
So, to maintain control over supply lines and in other words, to have control over the Indian Ocean region; India needs Maldives.
Over China:
Recently Maldives has approved a law passed by the Parliament, which allows foreigners to own the land for the first time.
As per the law, foreigners can invest more than 1 billion$ to own a land and 70% of the land is from the Indian Ocean region.
This move could enable China to set up military bases in Maldives.
As there is a cold war between India and China, which has improved technology in construction, this will be a huge advantage for China.
But Maldives Govt. Had denied that this law primarily aims for foreign investment on a commercial basis
> To counter the operation of STRING OF PEARLS, of China
String of Pearls:
It is a term coined by US officials, referring to the geopolitical strategies rather setups implemented by China along blue waters.It is about the military, commercial facilities and relationship along seaside communications of China.
China's is highly dependent on sea routes for its oil needs. Major of it comes through the Strait of Balacca where 40% of World Trade and 70% of China exports happens.
China wants to seek more options for its trade routes.
It is aiming for Pakistan's Gwadar as the hub for energy resources and other important resources, especially from Africa
> To ensure not to let happen Indian ocean as a Chinese Lake.
Over Pakistan:
>It can serve as potential launchpad for terrorists targeting India
>Post 26/11 attacks, India has enforced full security in Mumbai Ports and other areas. So, terrorists can easily transport men and material via Maldives
>Lashker-e-toiba is planning to have its base in Maldives. If this happens, terrorists can enter into India through Kerala
So, to not let happen all these things, India needs Maldives as a Strategic partner especially in the Indian Ocean Region
