Op-ed: Maldives and China: A five-decade friendship forged in cooperation

The following is an op-ed by the Chinese embassy in Maldives.

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Over five decades ago, on 14 October 1972, the first steps towards fostering inter-governmental cooperation between the Maldives and China were taken. Since then, both nations have worked diligently to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation.

This enduring relationship has seen regular consultations on economic development, cultural exchanges, promotion of tourism, and discussions on various issues of common interest during high-level visits. It is a testament to the mutual respect and shared interests that have solidified the strong ties between the two countries.

Early Collaborations

The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Colombo, which was accredited to the Maldives until 2007, played a pivotal role in nurturing the diplomatic relations between the two nations during its tenure. Regular exchanges and cooperation paved the way for the expansion of this partnership. To further fortify these ties, the Government of Maldives opened its first Embassy in Beijing on 20 August 2007. The Chinese embassy in the Maldives opened on November 8th, 2011. This move symbolized the commitment of both nations to deepen their diplomatic connections and enhance cooperation in various fields.

A Beneficial Partnership

China, despite being a developing nation itself, has consistently shown generosity in extending support and cooperation to the Maldives across various sectors. This assistance has played a crucial role in the Maldives' development and progress over the years. The Maldivian government and people remain deeply grateful to China for its continuous support.

Shared Values and Common Goals

Beyond economic cooperation, the Maldives and China share similar views on a multitude of regional and international issues. One prominent example is their alignment on the Taiwan issue, with the Maldives firmly supporting a one-China policy. This unity on critical matters reflects the depth of understanding and mutual trust between the two nations.

Strengthening the Future

As we look to the future, the partnership between the Maldives and China is poised to flourish even further. The diplomatic relations, characterized by respect, friendship, and shared objectives, serve as a testament to the potential of international cooperation.

The five-decade-long friendship between the Maldives and China stands as a shining example of diplomacy at its best. From the early steps in 1972 to the establishment of embassies and collaborative efforts, both countries have forged a relationship built on trust, mutual benefit, and shared values. As the world continues to evolve, this enduring friendship remains a beacon of hope for strengthened international cooperation and partnership.