Maldives accused of undermining democracy amid China push, by Primrose Riordan.

Australia has accused the Maldives government of undermining democracy, amid concerns about growing Chinese government influence in the country.

Former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed has argued that his country is so heavily indebted to China it will be forced to cede territory to the communist nation.

Mr Nasheed lives in exile and believes Chinese interests have leased at least 16 islands in the country, and the country’s opposition has argued ports are being constructed in order to host Chinese naval ships. …

In neighbouring Sri Lanka, there has been concern over a Chinese debt for equity swap over the deep sea Hambantota port.

hat-tip Stephen Neil