H.E. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that his government's vision for the development of the Maldives is one of engagement, partnership building, and focused delivery. He made the statement while delivering his remarks at the Invest Maldives Forum at the Fuzhou Strait International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Fuzhou, China.
President Dr Muizzu emphasized the prominence of his visit to China, as it is his first state visit to a foreign nation. Reflecting on the long-standing and fruitful government-to-government and business-to-business cooperation between the two countries, the President expressed his delight at the strong presence of both Chinese and Maldivian businesses at the forum.
The President spoke on the long-standing relationship between the Maldives and China, which dates back to the ancient Maritime Silk Road. He stated that China remains one of the closest allies and developmental partners of Maldives. He also noted that the Maldives became a party to H.E. President Xi Jinping's Belt and Road Initiative in 2014, which delivered significant infrastructure projects in the Maldives.
President Dr Muizzu highlighted on his vision for the expansion of the central airport and commercial port, emphasizing that the Government is keen to explore partnerships under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.
The President also highlighted the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) signed between China and the Maldives, citing that the FTA would boost bilateral trade and investments, particularly by increasing the export of fish products to China, marking it as a key priority explored within the FTA.
The President and the First Lady are currently undertaking a state visit to the People's Republic of China at the invitation of HE Xi Jinping, President of China. A high-level delegation is accompanying the President and the First Lady on this visit.
