Speaker: Maldives committed to support China’s efforts to maintain global peace

Parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla has reaffirmed Maldives’ commitment to supporting China’s efforts to maintain global peace and promote sustainable development.

The Speaker, on Tuesday, attended the commemoration of the 40th anniversary of the National People's Congress’s (NPC) affiliation to the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the opening ceremony of the Interregional Seminar on the Achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Parliaments of Developing Countries.

Prior to the ceremony, he participated in a special meeting with the speakers of the parliaments from participating countries, president of IPU and the chairperson of the Standing Committee of the NPC of China.

During the meeting, Speaker Abdul Raheem congratulated China on the 40th anniversary of the NPC’s affiliation to the IPU, recognizing it as a testament to China's longstanding contributions to global democracy and governance.

He also reflected on the enduring and significant relationship between the Maldives and China.

Speaker Abdul Raheem reaffirmed Maldives’ support for the One-China Policy and commended China’s leadership in global affairs. In this trajectory, the Speaker said Maldives is committed to supporting China's efforts in maintaining global peace and promoting sustainable development. 

“The Maldives has a close relationship with China, dating back to the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972. In recent years, the Belt and Road Initiative has further strengthened our ties. Projects like the Sinamalé Bridge and the expansion of Velana International Airport stand as symbols of our friendship and cooperation,” he said.

The Speaker also spoke regarding Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s successful state visit to China earlier this year, at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping. He emphasized the President’s goal of maintaining a "Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation Partnership" with China to further enhance relations between the two nations.

On the sidelines of the seminar, Speaker Abdul Raheem held discussions with IPU’s president and secretary general.

He is accompanied by Baarah MP Ibrahin Shujau, Vilimale’ MP Mohamed Ismail, Hulhudhoo MP Mohamed Shahid and Parliament’s Secretary General Fathimath Niusha during this ongoing visit to China.