Maldives and China have engaged in official talks.

As part of the State Councilor and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Wang Yi’s ongoing official visit to Maldives, extensive bilateral discussions were held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives Abdulla Shahid.

The official discussions saw both FM Shahid and State Councilor Wang Yi engaging in discussions revolving around a whole of issues in the bilateral and multilateral spheres.

They also agreed to work in joint collaboration to address the shared interests, in further enhancing the close relations between Maldives and China.

Expressing his gratitude to the State Councilor and the Chinese Government for the generous aid extended to the Maldivian government, including the construction of the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the Housing Units in Hulhumalé as well as the project to expand the Velana International Airport, FM Shahid expressed thanks for the vaccines and other pandemic related medical supplies the Chinese government has provided to the Maldives, to curb the spread of Covid-19 across Maldives.

FM Shahid and his Chinese counterpart went on to reiterate both countries’ commitment to increase their cooperation both bilaterally, through economic and development cooperation, health cooperation, in international fora such as the United Nations.

The minister’s visit comes upon the invitation of FM Shahid and is part of efforts by both countries to solidify the long-standing bilateral ties between Maldives and China, as well as to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between both countries.

Minister Yi arrived at the Velana International Airport on Friday evening and was received by FM Shahid and other high-level officials of the foreign ministry.

The visit will see the Chinese minister paying a courtesy call on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Maldives accords China as one of the most important development partners. China continues to contribute to the socio-economic development of Maldives, in several areas of significance.