Don't go to Maldives until normalcy returns, China tells citizens

Beijing: China on Monday told its citizens not to visit the Maldives until normalcy returns in the Indian Ocean archipelago nation, which is witnessing political turmoil.

"The spring festival is the peak season for Chinese citizens to go to the Maldives for tourism. In light of the relevant situation, we advise the Chinese tourists in the Maldives to follow closely the situation and be aware," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Geng Shuang.

"At the same time, we advise the people who go to the Maldives not to travel to the Maldives before the situation gets normal."

Beijing also said it was closely following the developments in Maldives where the Supreme Court ordered the immediate release of jailed political leaders including self-exiled former President Mohamed Nasheed.

However, the establishment led by President Abdulla Yameen has said that it will resist the order by the top court.

China had signed a free trade accord with Maldives last year that was rushed through Maldives Parliament without any debate and had left India worried.

In wake of this, Geng said: "We require the Maldives to take necessary measures to earnestly protect the security of the Chinese enterprises and their personnel."