Shahid: Maldives-China relations important for economic recovery

Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, on Wednesday, said that strengthening the relations between Maldives and China is crucial for economic recovery.

In his address during a virtual reception held to Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Zhang Lizhong to celebrate the 71st anniversary of founding of China, Shahid thanked the Chinese people, the government and companies for assisting Maldives during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Noting that the pandemic has presented Maldives with unprecedented economic challenges, Shahid said that increasing tourist arrivals to Maldives is key to economic recovery.

China had been the top source market for tourist arrivals to Maldives over the last years, before the Covid-19 pandemic hit the world, disrupting travel.

Shahid, in his address urged the restorations of flights, trade, connectivity between Maldives and China, and reiterated Maldives’s commitment to further strengthening the ties between the two countries.

Noting that the current year marks the 48th anniversary to the establishment of diplomatic relations between Maldives and China, Shahid said that the diplomatic relations between the two countries are based on strong historic bonds, sovereign equality and mutual respect for territorial integrity.

He reaffirmed the Maldivian government’s commitment to the One-China Policy.

The People’s Republic of China was founded in 1949.

Shahid, in his address, commended China for its milestones on progress and economic prosperity since its founding, and its leadership in important global areas, such as public health.

He also expressed hope that Maldives will benefit from the Covid-19 vaccines that are currently being developed by Chinese pharmaceutical companies.