The Maldives has said it will continue to make every effort to further improve its bilateral relations with China. The statement was made by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid in his message of felicitation to Wang Yi, the State Councilor and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, on the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
In his message, Minister Shahid said the relations between the two countries were founded upon shared respect for each other’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the firm commitment of the Maldives to the One-China Principle. He said he looks forward to a period of close engagement and collaboration, and collective efforts to further enhance the long-standing bilateral ties in the years ahead.
Furthermore, Minister Shahid said over the past 50 years, the relationship between the two peoples has stood the test of time, becoming one of friendship and close cooperation. He said the contributions made by China towards the socio-economic development of the Maldives have been extraordinary, positively inducing economic growth and investment in multiple spheres.
The Maldives and China established diplomatic relations on October 14, 1972.