Gov't apologizes for the letter misinterpreted as appointing an ambassador to Taiwan
The administration has reassured the country's long-term commitment to the one-China principle
Chinese Ambassador with the President
The Maldivian government has apologized for the letter misinterpreted as Maldives appointing an ambassador to Taiwan, says the Ambassador of People's Republic of China, Wang Lixin.
Taking to twitter, the Chinese Ambassador stated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, has explained and apologized to China for the misinterpretation of the letter.
In a letter, addressed to the People's Majlis, by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, last week, it was requested the appointment of Huda Ali Sharif as the Maldivian Ambassador to the "Republic of China". Republic of China is also known as Taiwan, which resulted in sparking a whirlwind of confusion and controversy.
However, the letter was addressed to the parliament, requesting the appointment of Huda Ali Sharif as the Maldivian Ambassador to the People's Republic of China.
China, under its one-China principles, sees Taiwan as part of the country. Hence, the country does not support the establishment of diplomatic relations between Taiwan and other countries, separate from the relations established with China.
The Maldives has always been a firm supporter of the one-China principle. As such, Maldives has not establish any separate diplomatic relations with Taiwan.
Ambassador Lixin noted that the the administration has reassured the country's long-term commitment to the one-China principle.
Maldives and China have celebrated 50 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
At the ceremony held to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, President Solih stated that the China-Maldives partnership demonstrates the strong bonds of friendship between the people of the two countries.
In his remarks at the reception, President Solih stated that the Maldives cherishes and values its partnership with China.
Stressing on the close bilateral relations the two countries have continued to enjoy over the years, the President went on to note that China has walked with Maldives, hand in hand along the country's development journey.
He stated that China continues to be an important development partner for the Maldives and that the China-Maldives partnership has been key to the Maldives’ developmental journey.
Further reflecting on the friendship between China and the Maldives throughout history, the President said that the ties between the two nations are based on shared commitment to the One-China Principle, the Maldives’ steadfast respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other countries, and our mutual desire to work closely together toward common goals.
The President highlighted several infrastructure projects completed with Chinese government assistance, including Sinamalé flats, Maldives' first social housing project; the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge; the Hiyaa housing project in Hulhumalé; the Velana International Airport expansion project and renovation of Ministry of Foreign Affairs building. The President stated that the ongoing micro-grid seawater desalination projects on several islands across the country, with the assistance of the Chinese government, will help to find long-term solutions to clean water shortage issues. He added that, over time, the collaborative initiatives have brought significant economic and social improvements for Maldivians.
