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Government keen to continue cooperation with China on development projects: Vice President

Vice President Faisal Naseem has said the Government of Maldives is keen to continue cooperation with China on development projects in Maldives. The vice president made the statement during a meeting held at the President’s Office with the Governor of Yunnan Province, China, Ruan Chengfa.

Highlighting that this year marks 47 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries, Vice President Naseem said China has been one of the most significant development partners of the Maldives. Speaking about some of the recent development projects undertaken with assistance from China, the vice president stressed that the administration is keen on continuing cooperation in such projects.

Vice President Naseem also noted on the number of tourist arrivals from China, which he stated contributed immensely to the tourism sector—one of the key economic drivers for the Maldives.

Speaking at the meeting, the Governor of Yunnan noted the close relations between the Maldives and Yunnan, and highlighted some areas to improve ties further. Some of these areas include economic and trade ties, tourism, agriculture, education and sports.

The governor also stated Yunnan was keen on extending higher education scholarship opportunities to Maldivian students and enhance people-to-people cooperation in the sports and agriculture sector. He also noted economic and trade ties between the Maldives and Yunnan Province had grown seven-fold during the past year.

The call concluded with the vice president thanking the governor for the continued assistance, especially in the higher education, sports and agriculture sectors. He further expressed his gratitude to the people and the Government of China, and assured continued support and cooperation in the years to come.