News & press releases

Chinese Ambassador Lizhong meets with Foreign Minister Shahid

08 June 2020

Ambassador of China to the Maldives, H.E Zhang Lizhong, today met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs H.E Abdulla Shahid this afternoon. The meeting was held virtually.

During the meeting, Ambassador Zhang briefed the Foreign Minister on the ongoing Chinese assistance to the Maldives, including the offer to set up a medical laboratory by the Chinese Company, BGI, towards supporting the efforts of the Government in combating COVID-19. Minister Shahid and Ambassador Zhang took the opportunity to discuss Chinese government’s decision to extend debt suspension to a number of developing countries, following the G-20 Debt Service Suspension Initiative. Ambassador Zhang noted that Maldives is among the 77 countries which are being considered by the Chinese government under this Initiative. Minister Shahid thanked the Chinese government for its continued support and assistance to the Maldives at this difficult time.

Ambassador Zhang briefed Minister Shahid about the decisions of the National People's Congress. Minister Shahid reiterated the Maldives government’s firm and unwavering commitment to the ‘One China Policy.’ He assured the Ambassador that Maldives shall always respect the sovereignty, national security and territorial integrity of China.

ENDS