Maldives appeals for China’s assistance in implementation of fiscal reforms

The Maldivian government has appealed for Chinese government’s assistance in the implementation of the fiscal reforms announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

The appeal was made during a meeting between Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi as part of the former’s ongoing official visit to China.

During the meeting, Minister Zameer highlighted the significant milestone of over 50 years of close cooperation between the Maldives and China and emphasized the commitment to elevate bilateral relations further.

He also thanked China for its substantial support through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which has played a pivotal role in the Maldives' socio-economic development and in this regard, particularly highlighted transformative projects such as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge and various other infrastructure developments, including the expansion of Velana International Airport and social housing projects.

Minister Zameer briefed the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang on the economic and fiscal state of the Maldives and emphasized the importance of diligently implementing fiscal reforms announced by President Muizzu. He then appealed for China’s support in this trajectory, adding it will consumer and investor confidence in the Maldivian economy which would then positively impact Maldives’ economic reliance.

He also affirmed Maldives’ commitment to the One-China Principle and the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership agreed upon during President Muizzu’s state visit to China in January.

The discussions covered an array of further topics which are crucial to strengthening Maldives-China relations.

Both sides concluded the meeting while reiterating their commitment to exploring new avenues for cooperation.

Minister Zameer was accompanied by Finance Minister Dr. Mohamed Shafeeg, Construction and infrastructure Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthalib, Ambassador Designate Dr. Fazeel Najeeb and senior officials of the Maldivian government and the Embassy of Maldives in China during the meeting. 

He also delivered two letters from President Muizzu addressed to Chinese President Xi Jinping