MDP Alleges Ulterior Motives Behind China’s Investment in Uthuru Thila Falhu Agricultural Project
Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail expressed concerns over China's investment in the agricultural economic zone project on Uthuru Thila Falhu, alleging it may be a cover for military ambitions. He questioned the government's decision to reclaim 200 hectares for agriculture, suggesting the land could address the housing crisis. Ismail noted that the area is near a Maldives National Defence Force harbour and warned of geopolitical implications. He also criticized the approval of a foreign research vessel mapping in the Exclusive Economic Zone. Ismail stated that if MDP wins the presidency in 2028, it would annul the agreement with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) and use the land for housing. The project involves a Memorandum of Understanding between CHEC and the Maldives Industrial Development Free Zone (MIDFZ), a consortium of five state-owned enterprises.