Maldives, China to hold 7th round of bilateral talks

Maldives and China are set to hold bilateral consultations on January 26.

This is the 7th round of bilateral talks being hosted between the two countries after the last bilateral consultation between both countries was hosted in 2017. In Maldives.

During the high-level consultations, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel will represent Maldives and Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Lou Zhaohui will represent China.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that the 7th round of bilateral talks will be held virtually due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic as well as in light of the travel restrictions in place.

The 7th round of bilateral talks will see Maldives and China engage in discussions relating to strengthening cooperation on areas of mutual interest including the battle against the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, economic cooperation and also on multilateral issues.

Discussions will also revolve around the resumption of trade and tourism between both countries as soon as possible, as well as the economic recovery post-pandemic.

The ministry reiterated the government’s commitment to continue dialogue with development partners like China as the island nation envelopes its focus around recovering from the ongoing pandemic.

In keeping with the country’s keenness to further enhance development cooperation with China, Maldives will also touch down on future projects and new areas of cooperation for the ongoing year, during the consultations.

Bilateral consultations between Maldives and China are proven to be an “excellent” avenue to keep up with their partnership and explore avenues for enhancing existing areas of cooperation.

Lately, in December 2020, Maldives engaged in Director-General level bilateral talks upon conclusion of which Maldives assured keen interest to continue dialogue with the southeastern nation.