In a game-changing move to fuel the island nation’s athletic aspirations on the global stage, Maldives has inked an agreement with China to elevate the sports sector, fostering athlete development and international success through collaborative training, coaching, and infrastructure initiatives.

The agreement was signed by Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu on behalf of the government of Maldives and by Director General of the Sports Bureau of Fujian Province Don Jin Son signed the agreement on behalf of the government of China.

The signing ceremony was held at Hulhulé Island Hotel.

Both countries will work together to develop the sports sector in the Maldives under the agreement signed between Maldives and China.

As such, in addition to conducting various training programs needed for Maldivian athletes, efforts will be made to develop athletes.

Further, sports clubs in the Maldives can be promoted and various opportunities can be provided for these clubs. Similarly, under the agreement, work will be carried out to develop coaches, referees, and health officials in the sports sector.

Speaking during the ceremony, Minister Rafiu said that under the agreement signed with China, it will provide an additional role to the ongoing work of promoting sports.

The minister has also stated that this will pave the way for achieving the goals and reaching the desired level that the Maldives aims to accomplish, particularly in the international sports arena. The minister added that the purpose of developing sports in the Maldives and advancing athletes under such an agreement is to bring them to a level where they can achieve top positions by the year 2040.