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Around the same time, a controversy erupted in India after three Maldivian officials made derogatory comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Maldivian Democratic Party, led by former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, who is seen as pro-India, held 65 seats in the previous Parliament but won only 15 seats, the news site Mihaaru.com reported.

In March Male signed a "military assistance" agreement with China for non-lethal weapons for free as well as train the Maldivian security forces.

As Maldivians give up on island life, the government feels compelled to keep building up Malé, the country’s one real city.

Both Beijing and Male elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in January when Mr Muizzu went to China on a state visit - he is yet to visit India, unlike previous Maldivian leaders.