Stating that the development partnership between the Maldives and China has reached a new high point over the past four years, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom on Wednesday described China as Maldives’ closest development and commercial partner.
President Yameen in his statement delivered at the official reception held to mark the 45th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries insisted that the Maldives considers China to be one of our truest friends, and underscored the mutual understanding, trust, and respect between the two countries.
"He especially highlighted that China understands that as a nation, the solutions to problems the Maldives faces can only be homegrown; believing in our capability to resolve our domestic affairs," president's office said in a statement.
The President further highlighted the fruitful discussions held and agreements signed between the Maldives and China during President Xi Jinping’s historic State Visit to Maldives in 2014, which paved the way to a partnership of “future oriented, all-round friendly, cooperative ties”.
He noted that the ground-breaking infrastructure projects launched after President Xi Jinping’s visit, including the construction of the friendship bridge between Male’ and Hulhule’ and the construction of a new runway, would stand as visible symbols of the everlasting friendship between the Maldives and China.
President Yameen expressed his gratitude to President Xi Jinping, the Government and the people of China for their generous assistance towards the socio-economic development of the Maldives.
Noting that today Maldives was going through a key transformational moment in its history, President Yameen stated that to achieve the true aspirations and desires of the Maldivian people, particularly the youth population, we needed to find creative and sustainable ways to enhance our economic base, create more opportunities for gainful employment, and provide livelihood opportunities for our people across the country. In this regard, the President invited Chinese entrepreneurs to be partners in the Maldives’ developmental journey.
The President and First Lady are currently on a State Visit to China, at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. During President Yameen’s State Visit, official talks will be held between the Government of Maldives and the Government of China – and key agreements will be signed with a view to enhance trade, professional and socioeconomic development as well as Technological and other collaborations between the two countries. The President will also meet with key leaders of China, and discuss ways to further accelerate socioeconomic ties between the Maldives and China.
