China-Maldives partnership has brought transformative effects to the Maldives: Ambassador Lixin

Facts have proved that close cooperation between China and Maldives have brought transformative effects to the Maldives and tangible benefits to the Maldivian people, says Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Wang Lixin.

Ambassador Lixin stated this at the official reception held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries and the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

The reception was held at Dharubaaruge on Saturday.

Taking the podium at the reception, Ambassador Lixin noted that the China-Maldives relations have maintained a good momentum of steady development, under the strategic guidance of the leaders of the two countries, in recent years.

She went on to note that both the countries have understood and supported each other on issues concerning respective core interests and major concerns.

As such, she highlighted that the Maldivian government has been firmly committed to the one-China principle. She noted that China has been strongly supporting the Maldives to speed up economic and social development and improve self-development capability.

The Chinese Ambassador noted the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, as a landmark project of the Belt and Road Initiative and the symbol of the profound friendship between China and Maldives. She went on to note that Chinese companies have completed more than 11,000 social housing units, and contributed a lot in improving the living conditions of local residents.

She also noted that the newly upgraded and expanded Velana International Airport has doubled its previous capacity and will greatly promote the development of Maldivian tourism in "leaps" and "bounds".

Stating that China and Maldives are now embarking on a shared path to hope, prosperity and happiness, Ambassador Lixin stated that China and the Maldives should continue with the past and open up the future to write a new chapter for bilateral relations with a more far-reaching eyesight and broader vision.

Ambassador Lixin stated that China is ready to work with the Maldives in further enhancing political trust, strengthening practical cooperation, expanding people-to-people and cultural exchanges as well as deepening traditional friendship.