President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has returned to the Maldives after an official visit to China.

The Maldivian leader undertook the visit after officially being invited by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

As part of the trip, Muizzu participated in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, engaging in high-level SCO Plus meetings alongside other heads of state and delegates. In addition to attending the summit, he held a bilateral meeting with President Xi Jinping.

On the sidelines of the summit, Muizzu also conducted several bilateral discussions with leaders from various countries, focusing on ways to strengthen foreign relations and explore new areas of cooperation.

Notably, the Maldives and China signed 11 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during the visit, covering collaboration across multiple sectors. In addition to this, Muizzu took part in a special parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of China’s victory day.

Since taking office, Muizzu has prioritized strengthening ties with China before turning attention to India. Following his initial visit to China in January 2024, he announced a strategic roadmap aimed at distancing the Maldives from India. This shift led to a temporary deterioration in Maldives-India relations, though ties with China did not see a significant boost at that time, and anticipated Chinese aid did not materialize.

As the country’s financial situation worsened, President Muizz sought to repair relations with India during a subsequent visit, where he signed agreements aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation.

This recent trip marks Muizzu’s second official visit to China since assuming office.