The Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Kong Xianhua, has highlighted the growing human resource and educational cooperation between China and the Maldives during a reception for participants of the China-Maldives Human Resources Training Programme.

Speaking at the reception, Ambassador Kong noted that China has trained more than 400,000 professionals from over 180 countries in the past 70 years, covering fields such as management, science and technology, agriculture, education, healthcare, and climate change. Since 2025, 287 Maldivians have participated in training programs either in China or the Maldives, marking a 34 per cent increase from 2024. Participants have gained knowledge in areas including economic development, agricultural technology, new energy, education management, and sports, he noted.

Reception for participants of the China-Maldives Human Resources Training Programme -- Photo: Chinese Embassy

The ambassador underscored that talent development is a cornerstone of national growth and described the training programmes as a bridge for knowledge sharing and people-to-people connectivity. He said that the programmes are free of political conditions, aimed solely at supporting Maldivian professional development and fostering bilateral friendship.

During President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s visit to China in early 2024, both countries agreed to train 1,000 Maldivian civil servants over five years. Kong encouraged participants to apply what they have learned to contribute to Maldives’ economic and social development and to act as “civilian diplomats” promoting China-Maldives friendship.

Ambassador Kong Xianhua addressing the reception for participants of the China-Maldives Human Resources Training Programme -- Photo: Chinese Embassy

Ambassador Kong also announced that applications for the 2026–2027 Chinese Government Scholarship are now open, offering Maldivian students access to world-class higher education in China, with a February 10, 2026 deadline.

He concluded by wishing continued progress in China-Maldives cooperation and enduring friendship between the two countries.