In a ceremony held at the President’s Office this morning, the Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the Maldives, Kong Xianhua, officially presented his Letters of Credence to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The event commenced with a traditional cultural procession, known as Haiykolhu, which escorted Ambassador Kong from Republic Square to the President’s Office. The procession was accompanied by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) traditional band.

Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and the People's Republic of China were formally established on October 14, 1972. Since then, the two nations have cultivated a longstanding and multifaceted partnership rooted in mutual respect and cooperation.

Following the formal presentation of credentials, President Dr Muizzu extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Kong and conveyed his appreciation for the enduring friendship between the two countries. During the ensuing discussions, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and addressed key areas of mutual interest.

Ambassador Kong reiterated the unwavering support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China for the Maldives’ national priorities and developmental aspirations. He also conveyed the high regard in which Maldives is held by President Xi Jinping, underlining the special significance the archipelago holds within the broader framework of China-Maldives relations.