News & press releases

Maldives and China to hold 7th Round of Bilateral Talks

24 January 2021

The Government of Maldives and the Government of People’s Republic of China is set to hold its 7th Round of Bilateral Consultations on 26 January 2021. His Excellency Mr. Ahmed Khaleel, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs will represent the Maldives, and His Excellency Mr. Lou Zhaohui, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of China will represent the Government of the People’s Republic of China. The bilateral consultations will aim to enhance cooperation between the two countries on mutual areas of interest, such as in combating the COVID-19 global pandemic, on economic cooperation and also on multilateral issues.   The two countries will also discuss economic recovery in a post-Covid world, and on the resumption of trade and tourism between Maldives and China at the earliest possible opportunity.   The Government of Maldives is keen on continuing its dialogue with its developmental partners, such as China, as the country embarks on a path of resilience and recovery post-Covid pandemic. It is especially interested in further strengthening the development cooperation between Maldives and China, and will discuss future projects and new areas of cooperation for the year 2021.

Bilateral consultations have proved to be an excellent avenue for both countries to take stock of its partnership and to find ways to strengthen existing areas of cooperation. The last bilateral consultation between Maldives and China was held in 2017 in the Maldives. Due to the ongoing pandemic and travel restrictions, this round of consultations will take place virtually between the two sides.   ENDS