Foreign Ministry withholds details of 11 MoUs signed between Maldives and China

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has refused to disclose details of 11 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed between the Maldives and China during the current administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, citing ongoing consultations between the two governments.

During Wednesday’s sitting of the People’s Majlis, MP for Maavah constituency Ahmed Shakir formally requested copies of the MoUs signed during President Muizzu’s visit to China in September. In a written response, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel stated that information on the agreements would be shared only after both sides conclude their discussions.

President Muizzu’s trip to China was officially undertaken to participate as an observer at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit. The signing ceremony for the MoUs was held at the Wangfujing Hilton Hotel in Beijing. According to the President’s Office, the agreements aim to strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas such as economic development, infrastructure, and renewable energy.

Despite repeated claims of transparency and accountability, the government has yet to release any substantive information regarding the contents or scope of these agreements. This lack of disclosure stands in sharp contrast to earlier criticisms leveled by current government figures against the previous administration for its secrecy surrounding agreements with India.

President Muizzu’s first official visit abroad after assuming office was also to China, during which 20 MoUs were reportedly signed. However, tangible benefits or progress resulting from those earlier agreements have yet to materialize.