Maldivian Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel on Wednesday declined to disclose details to the Parliament regarding multiple Memorenda of Understanding (MOUs) signed between Maldives and China back in September, stating that the details will be publicized once formal agreements are reached.
The Maldives and China had exchanged 11 MOUs on September 2, during an official visit to Beijing by Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
The President’s Office said at the time that MOUs aimed at “further strengthening bilateral collaboration across key sectors, including capacity building, economic development, infrastructure, and renewable energy.”
But it did not disclose any details.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu witnesses the exchange of 11 agreements between Maldives and China on September 2, 2025. (Photo/President's Office)
Maavah MP Ahmed Shakir, a lawmaker from the main opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), asked for copies of the MOUs.
But instead of providing copies, Khaleel wrote back on Wednesday that Maldives and China are engaged in further discussions regarding the MOUs.
He said that the two sides are working on reaching a formal agreement.
“I hereby inform you that this information will be shared with relevant authorities as soon as these efforts wrap up,” wrote Khaleel, declining to provide copies of the MOUs as requested.
Back in September, the President’s Office said the MOUs exchanged between Maldives and China underscore “the shared commitment of both nations to deepen their longstanding partnership and explore new avenues of cooperation to promote sustainable development and mutual prosperity.”