China and Maldives has marked 43 years to diplomatic relations. The two nations established relationship on 14th October 1972.
The past 43 years have seen large development projects carried out by the Chinese Government in the Maldives. Chinese Government had constructed the sanitation works, Foreign Ministry building, National Museum building and the first flats in Male’.
Currently, Chinese investment is engaged in constructing the 15 km road in Hahdhunmathi, second runway of the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport and the China Maldives Friendship Bridge
Additionally, China has been a constant provider of grant aid to the Maldives. Chinese tourists amount to 33 percent of the total number of tourists, the largest number from one single destination. Given the current situation, China is the most vital development partner for the nation.
A Chinese embassy was recently opened in the Maldives, which will facilitate visa applications and other services.
The diplomatic relations between the two nations had grown after President Abdullah Yameen assumed power. President Yameen had visited China thrice, while President Xi Jinping paid a visit early this year. The two nations are to engage in free trade agreement, which will seek to grow the financial and business relations between the two nations.