China and Maldives celebrate 50 years of bilateral ties on Friday, October 14, 2022.
The two nations first formed the diplomatic union in 1972, after which the two countries have enjoyed five decades long multi-sphere cooperation.
Speaking on this occasion, China’s President H.E. Xi Jinping had congratulated the government and people of the Maldives. While noting that the friendly exchanges between the countries dates back to ancient times, President Xi highlighted on the strong diplomatic relations spanning over 50 years. The Chinese head of state recognized the two countries have "always respected and supported each other, which has set [a] good example of countries of different sizes treating each other as equals and seeking win-win cooperation."
Moreover, he stressed on the difficulties countries faced amid the Covid-19 pandemic through which both nations emerged with stronger-than-ever ties, and deepened cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.
President Xi affirmed continued support towards the development of the China-Maldives relations.
Meanwhile, the Chinese ambassador to the Maldives H.E. Wang Lixin celebrated the Golden Jubilee of bilateral relations enjoyed between the two countries.
"China-Maldives relations have withstood the test of international vicissitudes and become more mature and stable. China and the Maldives have been upholding the spirit of friendship and neighborliness, respecting each other, treating each other as equals, helping each other sincerely, understanding and supporting each other on issues concerning the two countries' core interests and major concerns," Ambassador Wang said.
While commemorating the auspicious 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, the State Councilor and Foreign Minister of China H.E. Wang Yi had highlighted on the political trust between the two nations, which has been strengthened with cooperation in various fields.
"The two sides have firmly supported each other in international and regional affairs. I’m ready to work with you to implement the important consensus reached by the heads of state of our two countries and promote the China-Maldives future-oriented all-round friendly and cooperative partnership with greater development," the Foreign Minister said.
Meanwhile, Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih had thanked the Chinese government and its people for continued support and assistance to the island nation.
"Maldives and China have always enjoyed a long history of friendship and cooperation. The last two decades have especially witnessed immense contribution from China to the social, cultural, and economic development of the Maldives," President Solih said. He also adds that the relationship was anchored in a strong foundation of shared historic bonds, sovereign equality and mutual respect for one another, as well as the Maldives' firm commitment to One-China Principle.
The Foreign Minister of Maldives, Abdulla Shahid had also spoken about the deep ties between the two countries, Noting that the friendship have stood the test of time, becoming one of close cooperation.
Throughout the five decades of bilateral ties, China has assisted Maldives in various aspects including housing and infrastructure development, tourism, health and education.
Furthermore, the largest infrastructure project carried out and completed till date - the Sinamale’ Bridge - was thanks to the Chinese government. In addition to this, the South Asian giant assisted with the expansion of Velana International Airport and various housing projects in Hulhumale'. China was also among the most generous helpers to the Maldives amid the Covid-19 pandemic, with medical supplies and vaccine doses.