Discussions have been held on strengthening substantive cooperation between the Maldives and China’s Yunnan Province, in several areas.

This was done during a courtesy call paid by the Governor of the People’s Government of Yunnan Province of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yubo on Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid as part of his ongoing official visit, on Sunday.

Welcoming Governor Yubo and his delegation to the foreign ministry, FM Shahid shed light on the long-lasting close bilateral ties between the Maldives and China.

The Maldivian minister stated that such visits pave the path for excellent opportunities to promote exchanges and increase cooperation between the Maldives and the Yunnan Province.

Shedding light on the close relations between the two countries, Governor Yubo assured his commitment to work closely with the government of Maldives in enhancing cooperation to promote economic growth as well as development.

Further, the meeting saw views exchanged on a wide array of areas.

Discussions also touched upon efforts to strengthen substantive cooperation in the fields of agriculture, education, sports, tourism, and trade.

During the meeting, FM Shahid reiterated that the Maldivian government remains steadfast in its firm commitment to the One China Principle, as articulated innumerable times, since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Maldives and China.

The meeting was joined by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel, Foreign Secretary Ahmed Latheef, Bilateral Secretary Dr. Hala Hameed, Secretary of Economic Cooperation Dr. Hussain Niyaaz, Additional Secretary at the foreign ministry Amin Javed Faizal and Senior Undersecretary Fathimath Naeema.

The Governor of China's Yunnan Province is currently on an official visit to the Maldives upon the official invitation of FM Shahid.

His visit is from May 20 – 22.