Foreign Minister Shahid: Relationship between China-Maldives is exemplary

The relationship between the Maldives and China is the perfect example of how a small nation and a powerful bigger nation can have beneficial relations, says Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.

Shahid stated in an interview with the Chinese newspaper Xinhua, that the relationship between Maldives and China is an example of how one of the smallest members of the international community can have a mutually productive and progressive relationship with one of its biggest and most powerful members.

The Foreign Minister also stated that the current Maldivian government is looking forward to promoting its relation with China to new heights and that the relationship between the two countries is based on a strong foundation of shared bonds, equality and mutual respect for territorial integrity.

"The heightened cooperation between our two countries has indeed been mutually beneficial to our people. China will remain as an important economic and bilateral development partner for the Maldives, in its journey to become one of the most vibrant middle-income developing countries, and I am personally committed to ensuring that our already strong relations are further enhanced with more vigor and passion in the years to come,"

"The Maldives supports China's territorial integrity and we remain firmly committed to the One-China Policy," said the Foreign Minister.

Minister Shahid also reiterated that the Maldives is a close partner and supporter of the Belt and Road Initiative proposed by China. The Foreign Minister also stated that the Maldivian people have benefited immensely from the assistance provided by China in different ways and are deeply appreciative of the key projects such as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the development of Velana International Airport as well as the numerous housing projects. Shahid also pointed out the cooperation between the two countries in the tourism industry and how China is the biggest market for the biggest industry in the Maldives for the past decade.