Important to enhance cooperation between Maldives and China for mutual development goals, says Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.

This was asserted during a call paid on the Vice President of China, Wang Qishan on Thursday.

During the meeting, held at Ziguang Pavilion, Wang and Shahid stressed on the important role Maldives plays as a partner in China’s Belt and Road initiative.

Similarly, Shahid shed light on the important role China plays as a development partner of the island nation.

Discussions were also held on several areas through which both countries have bilateral relations.

Congratulating China on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the country, Shahid reiterated the Maldives government’s commitment to the “One-China Policy”.

Further, Shahid praised China’s President, Xi Jinping for the applaudable social development and economic growth brought about for the people by the government.

Also on Thursday, the Maldives delegation visited the Maldives Embassy in Beijing. Shahid met with Maldivian students in Beijing as well.

While Shahid is currently on his first official visit to Beijing, China, he is accompanied by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel, Multilateral Secretary Dr. Ali Naseer Mohamed, Director of Communications Miuvan Mohamed and Assistant Director Maryam Bassama Farooq.

The delegation is set to conclude the trip and return on Friday.