The Maldives has underscored the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and regional cooperation in maintaining international peace and stability, during the 7th China–South Asia Cooperation Forum held in Yunnan Province.
During the opening ceremony of the Forum, Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam delivered a statement emphasizing the need for unity and collective action in addressing the complex global challenges facing the international community.
The Foreign Minister also noted that the State Visit to China by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu in 2024 further strengthened the longstanding friendship between the Maldives and China, and elevated bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership. She expressed appreciation to the government and people of Yunnan Province for their continued friendship and support towards the Maldives and its people, and reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to further deepening bilateral cooperation across a wide range of areas.

In concluding her statement, the Foreign Minister reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to working closely with China and other regional partners to promote mutual understanding, strengthen cooperation, and contribute to peace, stability, and shared prosperity in the region.
Foreign Minister also attended the opening ceremony of the 10th China-South Asia Expo and toured the exhibition, and visited the exhibition stalls by Maldivian vendors participating in this year’s Expo. 
The opening ceremony was also attended by Ambassador of Maldives to China, Dr Fazeel Najeeb, Additional Secretary, Amin Javed Faizal, Director, Maryam Bassama Farooq at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Mizna Waheed, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Maldives in China.