Maldives, China Reaffirm Ties, Signal Closer Engagement in Vice President's Meeting with Chinese Ambassador

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef reaffirmed the longstanding diplomatic ties between the Maldives and China during a meeting on Thursday with Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua. Held at the President's Office, the meeting also underscored both nations' mutual interest in advancing bilateral cooperation.

During the exchange, the vice president and the ambassador described the Maldives–China relationship as one grounded in mutual respect, goodwill and a shared commitment to development, according to a statement issued by the President's Office. Both sides, the statement added, reiterated their determination to strengthen these ties in the years ahead.

Ambassador Kong officially presented his credentials to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on 5 May 2025, shortly before assuming his diplomatic post. Relations between the two countries date back to 14 October 1972, when formal diplomatic ties were established. Over the decades, collaboration has expanded steadily, particularly in trade and infrastructure development.

Under President Muizzu, engagement with Beijing has assumed renewed priority, leading to a series of high-level exchanges, including a visit in January 2025 by China's Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, who met with the president to discuss advancing bilateral cooperation. That same momentum has been evident at the vice-presidential level. In December 2024, Vice President Latheef travelled to China, marking a further step toward deepening the diplomatic relationship.