China is ready to contribute to the progress of all developing countries including the Maldives, says State Councilor and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Wang Yi.

As part of his ongoing official visit to the Maldives upon the invitation of Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid, the State Councilor of China paid a courtesy call on President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Saturday.

The meeting saw the pair engage in extensive discussions on the existing bilateral relations between Maldives and China and highlighted that 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of political relations between the two countries.

Discussions also revolved around a wide range of issues of mutual interest and benefit to both nations.

Highlighting that travelers between the two countries have been linked for over 600 years, even before formal diplomatic ties were established, State Councilor Wang Yi revealed that the foreign policy of China is based upon mutual trust, solidarity and respect for the sovereignty of other nations.

Going on to discuss the generous assistance from the government of China towards the development of Maldives over the past years, the Maldivian president expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for their commitment to maintain the close, cordial friendship with the Maldives, particularly in times of need.

With this being said, he thanked the government of China for the consignment of Sinopharm vaccines provided in support of the Maldives’ national inoculation drive.

The Maldivian president also touched down on the importance of the key agreements signed on Saturday towards greater cooperation in areas of mutual interest, in hopes that the visit of the Chinese minister will further solidify the existing relations between Maldives and China.

The meeting concluded with President Solih and the minister of China reaffirming their shared commitment to continue working together for the common welfare of the citizens of both countries.

Diplomatic relations were established between Maldives and China on 14 October 1972.