Gov’t Appeals for Chinese Assistance in Fiscal Reforms

The Maldivian government has sought the assistance of the Chinese government to implement the fiscal reforms announced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

The appeal was made during a meeting between Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi as part of Zameer’s ongoing official visit to China.

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During the meeting, Minister Zameer highlighted the significant milestone of over 50 years of close cooperation between the Maldives and China, emphasising the commitment to further elevate bilateral relations.

He expressed gratitude for China’s substantial support through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), noting its pivotal role in the Maldives’ socio-economic development. Key projects mentioned included the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the expansion of Velana International Airport, and various social housing initiatives.

Minister Zameer also provided an overview of the economic and fiscal state of the Maldives, stressing the importance of implementing the fiscal reforms announced by President Muizzu. He appealed for China’s support, suggesting that it would bolster consumer and investor confidence, positively impacting the Maldivian economy.

Furthermore, Zameer reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to the One-China Principle and the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership established during President Muizzu’s state visit to China in January.

The discussions covered a range of topics crucial to strengthening Maldives-China relations, with both sides reiterating their commitment to exploring new avenues for cooperation.

Minister Zameer was accompanied by Finance Minister Dr. Mohamed Shafeeg, Construction and Infrastructure Minister Dr. Abdulla Muthalib, Ambassador Designate Dr. Fazeel Najeeb, and senior officials from the Maldivian government and the Embassy of Maldives in China.

During the visit, Zameer also delivered two letters from President Muizzu addressed to Chinese President Xi Jinping.