Embassy of China has successfully concluded the First Joint Meeting for Tripartite Mechanism on Security Issues for Belt and Road Project. The joint meeting organised by the Chinese embassy was held to discuss the belt and road project conducted in Maldives and to bring all relevant authorities on a common platform to discuss the challenges and updates of the project.
The meeting held in Hotel Jen was attended by representatives from companies conducting Chinese projects in Maldives, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Housing and Infrastructure, Maldives Police Service, Maldives Immigration and other relevant authorities. The government entities which attended the meeting received complaints from companies conducting Chinese projects in Maldives and assured to work to solve the challenges.
Speaking at the meeting, Secretary Bilateral Ahmed Khaleel, stated as China is a key development partner of Maldives, undertaking several infrastructure development projects, the government of Maldives gives utmost importance to ensuring the safety and security of all those who are involved in these projects. In this regard, he also expressed hope the initiative by the Chinese embassy to hold a joint meeting will be a good first step for future cooperation.
Maldives established foreign relations with China 45 years ago, in 1972. Since President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom assumed office, China has been the main developmental partner of Maldives, assisting the government in its efforts to stabilise the economy which was left in turmoil by previous administrations. In addition to the biggest ever infrastructure project Sina-Male' Bridge, China is conducting many projects in Maldives, including the biggest ever runway constructed in Maldives, the fifth power project and 7,000 housing units as part of the social housing project announced by the government. Upon completion, all these projects will serve in the best interest of the people and benefit the economy of the country.
Meanwhile, Malaysia and Thailand among other countries are actively engaging in the development of Maldives, along with China. These collaborations and projects enhance the economy of Maldives and prove the investor trust in the country.