by Xinhua writers Wu Yue, Chen Dongshu
COLOMBO, Oct. 31 (Xinhua) -- Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has said that his country is willing to continue working closely with China to build a community with a shared future and create a brighter tomorrow for both countries.
He made the remarks in a recent written interview with Xinhua, also noting that relations between the Maldives and China are at their highest point in history.
He noted that China is one of the Maldives' most important partners and that bilateral cooperation has been "very beneficial" to both sides.
"The infrastructure that had been constructed with Chinese assistance has no doubt elevated the Maldives' economic prospects to unseen levels, creating multiplier effects that continue to reverberate across the entire economic, political and social spectrums," he said.
"The China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, connecting the two islands of Hulhule (home to Velana International Airport) and the capital city of Male, is just one example of this. Dotted around the Maldives are numerous cases of Chinese generosity and assistance to the Maldivian people," Muizzu said.
According to Muizzu, both countries are now accelerating cooperation in business and commerce, agriculture and fisheries, health, telecommunications, education, the digital economy and infrastructure development.
"The Free Trade Agreement that came into effect earlier this year has already shown remarkable progress and an uptick in business activities between the two countries, which can only grow in the future," he said.
The president stressed that the development of Maldives-China relations has always been rooted in the firm belief in friendship and cooperation, mutual respect and understanding.
"Regardless of size, China, being one of the largest and the Maldives one of the smallest countries in the world, we have been treated with respect and deference. We will continue to uphold our common values and perspectives on issues of mutual interest, and will continue to work towards our shared future," he said.
He reaffirmed that the Maldives will steadfastly adhere to the one-China principle and continue to coordinate with China on issues of mutual concern.
Muizzu also highlighted China's leadership in addressing climate change. "For Small Island Developing States like the Maldives, such leadership from major economies provides hope and reassurance," he said.
In September, Muizzu attended commemorative events in Beijing marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Before visiting the capital, he attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Tianjin.
"We are fully committed to the ideals and visions of the SCO to foster economic, cultural and regional cooperation between the members," Muizzu said. "We believe the SCO is a vital platform to promote an international order that is just, equitable and representative of the Global South, and we expressed our obligations to further the goals of the SCO in the future."
He said he was especially honored to attend the commemorative event in Beijing, noting that China has become a key force in maintaining global security and stability, and highly appreciating China's commitment to peaceful development. ■
