Ambassador Wang Highlights Mutual Trust as Cornerstone of China-Maldives Relations at Decade of Friendship Symposium

Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Wang Lixin, emphasized the role of mutual trust and shared vision in fostering a decade-long partnership between China and the Maldives. Speaking at the symposium "China and Maldives: A Decade of Friendship Towards One Shared Future," Ambassador Wang highlighted the deepening relationship and ongoing cooperation between the two nations, citing mutual trust as the foundation for sustained progress.

Hosted by the Chinese Embassy in the Maldives and the Maldives China Trade & Cultural Organization, the event welcomed key officials, including Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sheryna Abdul Samad and Minister of State for Economic Development Abdulla Siyaz, as well as representatives from the Ministry of Tourism, the Ministry of Construction and Infrastructure, the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), and other dignitaries.

Reflecting on milestones in the partnership, Ambassador Wang noted the significant impact of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s 2014 state visit to the Maldives, which set a strategic course for high-level engagement and collaboration. This year, President Mohamed Muizzu’s state visit to China underscored both nations' commitment to building on this foundation, exploring new avenues in political, economic, and cultural ties. "The strong political mutual trust between our countries has laid a solid foundation for development," stated Ambassador Wang, adding that initiatives under China’s Belt and Road framework have been pivotal in advancing infrastructure and economic development in the Maldives.

Ambassador Wang reiterated China’s dedication to sustainable development in the Maldives, outlining plans for further collaboration in fields like infrastructure, tourism, technology, and green energy. He also underscored the importance of people-to-people exchanges, which he described as “a constant driving force” for the flourishing China-Maldives relationship.

Speakers from the Maldivian delegation echoed these sentiments, noting that high-profile projects such as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge have visibly enhanced living standards and accessibility in the Maldives. Deputy Secretary General of MATI, Asad Ali, environmental economist Dr. Simad Saeed, and MCTCO Vice President Midhuam Saud expressed optimism about deepening cooperation with China, aiming to benefit from Chinese modernization efforts and leverage expertise in diverse sectors, from trade and finance to science, education, and sustainable energy.

The symposium concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening China-Maldives relations in the coming years, with Ambassador Wang expressing China’s readiness to work alongside the Maldives in realizing a “community with a shared future.”