President highlights China as a key bridge in Maldives’ journey toward becoming a developed nation

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed his hope that Maldives-China relations will continue to serve as a bridge to opportunity and prosperity as the Maldives advances towards becoming a developed nation.

He made the remarks at the reception held to mark the 77th National Day of the People’s Republic of China.

On behalf of the Government and people of the Maldives, the President extended warm greetings and best wishes to Chinese President Xi Jinping, and to the Government and people of China.

In his speech, the President said the relationship between the Maldives and China is not confined to diplomatic statements, but is a practical reality reflected in development projects across the country. He highlighted the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, housing projects, and trade opportunities created through the Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

“For the people of Maldives, this friendship with China is not just in diplomatic statements. It is visible, tangible and connected to the daily lives of the people,” he said.

The President noted that bridges are not only made of steel and cement, but also serve as connections between people, communities and nations. He expressed his wish for Maldives-China relations to continue in this spirit.

“We wish that Maldives-China relations will continue to be a bridge to opportunities and prosperity in the Maldives’ journey to become a developed country by 2040,” he said.

He added that no country can face global economic and climate challenges alone, and stressed that dialogue and cooperation must prevail over division. The President also thanked China for its continued cooperation in the Maldives’ development.