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Maldives and China discuss strengthening relations

The Vice Chairman of the 14th Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Bateer has paid a courtesy call on President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu this morning at the President's Office. Upon his arrival to Velana International Airport (VIA), he was given a warm welcome by the Deputy Speaker of the Parliament Ahmed Nazim, along with other parliamentarians.

During the meeting, President Dr. Muizzu emphasised the cordial relationship between the Maldives and China. The president highlighted his visit to China earlier this year, and expressed his gratitude for the opportunity. He mentioned key developmental initiatives such as the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge and looked forward to strengthening the friendly relations between the two countries.

Meanwhile, Vice Chairman Bateer conveyed warm greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping and congratulated President Dr. Muizzu on securing a majority in the parliamentary election. The vice chairman also highlighted the historic relations between the two countries. He reiterated that the Chinese government respects and supports the Maldives' sovereignty and promotes mutual respect while advancing cooperation between the two nations. He also noted that the 2014 State Visit by President Xi Jinping to the Maldives and the recent visit by President Dr. Muizzu significantly contributed to the advancement of cooperation and friendly relations between the two countries.

Concluding the meeting, the President Dr. Muizzu and Vice Chairman Bateer expressed their eagerness to work closely on future collaborations.

The visit of Vice Chairman Bateer is from June 11-13. During the trip, the vice chairman will hold discussions with Speaker of the Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdullah and Deputy Speaker Nazim. Vice Chairman Bateer, who is a member of the central committee of the ruling Chinese Communist Party, took over as Vice Chairman of the advisory board in 2018.