The Chinese Embassy in Maldives has stated that the claim of former President Mohamed Nasheed that the government of Maldives is renting a land from Laamu Atoll to China as a military base is completely false.
The Chinese Embassy stated that it is a common knowledge that China pursues a national defence policy that is defensive in nature.
“China does not maintain any military base in any foreign country. China always upholds the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence in its foreign relations, and believes in peace, development and win-win cooperation,” the Embassy stated.
The Chinese Embassy also stated that this is also the foundation for China-Maldives relations which are not only mutually beneficial but also transparent to the outside world.
The Embassy noted that China and Maldives have been close neighours and partners for the past centuries, and our relations have been expanded greatly in recent years.
“The two sides have established a Future-Oriented All-Round Friendly and Cooperative Partnership, and decided to jointly build 21st Century Maritime Silk Road for the sole purpose of bringing benefits to the people of our two counties,” the Embassy revealed.
The Chinese Embassy expressed hopes that Maldivian politicians can conduct more dialogues that are conducive to China-Maldives friendly relations, and engage in more actions that could promote the mutually beneficial cooperation between our two countries.