16th December 2023 (9 Topics)

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Maldives to not renew 2019 water survey pact with India and hydrographic surveys

Context

What was planned under the pact, and why did the Maldives pull out of it? Does India have similar pacts with other countries?

Hydrographic survey:

Hydrographic survey is the science of measurement and description of features which affect maritime navigation, marine construction, dredging, offshore wind farms, offshore oil exploration and drilling and related activities.
Surveys may also be conducted to determine the route of subsea cables such as telecommunications cables, cables associated with wind farms, and HVDC power cables.

About

Shifting Diplomatic Dynamics

Diplomatic development: In a notable diplomatic development, the Maldives government has chosen not to renew a 2019 agreement with India, allowing India to conduct hydrographic surveys in Maldivian waters.
India's military presence: This decision comes against the backdrop of President Mohamed Muizzu's administration expressing reservations about India's military presence in the country.

Understanding the Hydrographic Survey Agreement:

Sonar:Hydrographic surveys involve the use of ships employing methods like sonar to comprehend various features of a water body.
Cooperation in hydrography: The 2019 agreement, signed during Prime Minister NarendraModi's visit to the Maldives, aimed to foster cooperation in hydrography between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

Pact Execution:

Surveys: The surveys, carried out by Indian Naval Ships, aimed to map water depth, seafloor and coastline shape, and potential obstructions. The collected data was crucial for ensuring the efficiency and safety of maritime transportation.

Survey Impact and Intent:

Hydrographic survey findings:The hydrographic surveys identified new shoals, updated navigational charts, and electronic navigational charts, benefiting sectors like tourism, fisheries, and agriculture.
Hydrographic facilities: India also supported the Maldives in establishing hydrographic facilities within the MNDF, providing equipment, and offering training to MNDF personnel.

Reasons Behind Maldives' Decision:

Shift in the diplomatic dynamics: While specific reasons were not outlined, the termination of the hydrographic survey agreement suggests a shift in the diplomatic dynamics between the two nations.

International Cooperation in Hydrography:

Hydrographic survey collaborations: India, possessing significant hydrographic capabilities, has engaged in hydrographic survey collaborations with various countries, including Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
Potential for international cooperation: The National Hydrographic Office emphasizes the potential for international cooperation in hydrography, particularly in regions like Asia and Africa where a considerable portion of waters remains unsurveyed.

Way Forward:

The hydrographic survey agreement between India and the Maldives reflects evolving diplomatic relations, with the Muizzu government expressing its stance against India's military presence.
The decision underscores the complexities of international partnerships, especially in strategic domains like hydrography, and hints at a reevaluation of bilateral ties between the two nations.

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