Maldives has the wisdom and ability to solve problems, says China

The Chinese government has said that China has faith in the Maldives' government and believes that Maldives has the ability to solve the country’s own problems.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman on Monday expressed hope that the Maldives would maintain national stability and social development in the wake of halted elections.

"China has faith in the Maldives' government and its people. They have wisdom and the ability to solve problems," spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a daily news briefing, responding to a question related to the Maldives' presidential election.

The presidential election is a matter of the Maldives' internal affairs, and China respects the people's independent choice, Hua said, adding that the China hopes related parties will resolve their disputes through friendly negotiation.

“China is closely following the situation of its neighboring country, the Maldives," the spokeswoman said.