His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has highlighted the enduring friendship between the Maldives and China, emphasising that the two countries’ partnership continues to build bridges towards opportunity, prosperity and a better future.
He made the remarks while speaking at the official reception commemorating the 77th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
The President noted that the Maldives’ relationship with China is founded on mutual respect, sovereign equality, peaceful coexistence and the Maldives’ steadfast commitment to the One China Principle. He highlighted the elevation of Maldives-China relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership following his State Visit to China in 2024.
Highlighting China’s contribution to the Maldives’ national development, President Dr Muizzu noted its support through modern urban initiatives, sustainable island infrastructure, education, technical training and institutional support. He also highlighted the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, housing projects and other development initiatives, as well as growing opportunities for trade and economic engagement supported by the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries.
Addressing global challenges, President Dr Muizzu noted that conflicts and instability in different parts of the world continue to affect lives, economies and global markets, with Small Island Developing States (SIDS) such as the Maldives particularly exposed to such shocks.
He stressed the importance of dialogue, cooperation, mutual respect and trust, noting that peace creates the space for development, stability creates the foundation for prosperity, and cooperation gives nations the strength to overcome challenges together.
Looking ahead, the President expressed the Maldives’ interest in expanding cooperation with China, including through China’s four global initiatives, and further aligning the partnership with the national development priorities of the Maldives.
Concluding his remarks, the President extended his warmest congratulations and sincere good wishes to His Excellency President Xi Jinping, the government and the people of the People’s Republic of China, and expressed hope that China would continue to prosper.
First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, Cabinet Ministers, His Excellency Kong Xianhua, Ambassador of China to the Maldives, and other senior Maldivian and Chinese officials attended the reception.