President Solih: China remain important development partner of Maldives

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Saturday said that China continues to be an important development partner for the Maldives, and that the China-Mald partnership has been key to the development journey of the country.

He remarked this while speaking at the official reception held in Dharubaaruge to commemorate the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between the two countries and the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

During the address, President Solih congratulated Chinese President Xi Jinping, the government, and the people of China on the diplomatic milestone.

"This is a partnership Maldives values and cherishes, and it demonstrates the strong bonds of friendship between our two peoples."

Stressing the continued close bilateral relations between both nations over the years, the President said, "China has walked with us hand in hand along our development journey.”

Further reflecting on the friendship between China and Maldives throughout history, the President said that the ties between the two nations are based on a shared commitment to the One-China Principle, Maldives’ steadfast respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of other countries, and the mutual desire to work closely together toward common goals.

In addition to this, President Solih highlighted several infrastructure projects that were completed with Chinese government assistance.

This includes the Sinamalé flats – which was the first social housing project in Maldives, the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the Hiyaa housing project in Hulhumalé, the Velana International Airport expansion project and the renovation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs building.

Speaking on the ongoing micro-grid seawater desalination projects on several islands, with the assistance of the Chinese government, the President noted that these will help to find long-term solutions to clean water shortage issues. President Solih stressed that over time, the collaborative initiatives have brought significant economic and social improvements for Maldivians.

In his speech, the President also conveyed warm greetings and sincere best wishes on the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China to President Xi Jinping, the government, and the people of China.

Concluding his address, he expressed confidence that both nations could work together to advance the development partnership over the coming years and beyond.

Attendees of the function include, the Ambassador of China to Maldives, Wang Lixin, Vice President Faisal Naseem, former President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik, cabinet ministers, members of the People’s Majlis, and senior officials of the government.