The main opposition parties in Maldives, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Democrats, expressed concern about the government’s “anti-India stance.” They called India the “most long-standing ally” and criticized the administration for permitting a Chinese research ship to dock in a Maldivian port, signaling a pivot away from traditional ties with India. The opposition parties emphasized the importance of working with all development partners for the country’s benefit and highlighted concerns about transparency in financial matters and agreements with foreign parties.