Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Wang Lixin, has said that China-Maldives bilateral relations has been accelerated to bolster the long-standing ties between the two nations, aiming to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic.
During the 74th National Day celebrations of the People's Republic of China held at the Social Centre on Sunday evening, October 8, Ambassador Lixin highlighted that China and the Maldives have long maintained close ties.
Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Wang Lixin
The reception was attended by President-elect Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Vice President-elect Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Chief Justice Ahmed Muthasim Adnan and Minister of Higher Education Dr. Ibrahim Hassan.
"It has been 51 years since China and Maldives established diplomatic relations, and through mutual respect and support, we have set a positive example of equal benefit between two countries, despite their differences in size," the ambassador said.
Ambassador Lixin said that as the Belt and Road project, initiated under Chinese President Xi Jinping's vision celebrates its 10th anniversary, the Maldives has greatly benefited from the project.
As an example, the ambassador highlighted several projects, including the construction of the Sinamalé Bridge, the development of Velana Airport, and numerous social housing projects, funded by the Chinese government.
As the third meeting of the Belt and Road Forum will be held in Beijing this month, the ambassador emphasized that China is prepared to foster further development and progress through collaborations with other countries.
Speaking at the reception, ambassador Lixin said that the relations between the two countries have maintained a positive trajectory over the past few years under the strong guidance of the leaders of both nations.
"Since the beginning of the year, the fast-forward button of China-Maldives relations has been pressed to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic," the ambassador said.
Chinese Ambassador to Maldives Wang Lixin with President-elect Dr. Mohamed Muizzu
Ambassador Lixin highlighted that the resumption of direct flights between China and the Maldives has significantly boosted tourism between the two nations.
The visa exemption agreement signed between the two countries, now in effect, has facilitated ease of travel for senior government officials and the general public between China and the Maldives.
Ambassador Lixin reiterated China's readiness to work closely with the Maldives government to promote sustainable development and progress for both countries in the future.