At the opening ceremony of the 9th China–South Asia Expo in Kunming, China, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ahmed Nazim highlighted the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the Maldives and China. He noted the two nations uphold a peaceful and cooperative relationship, grounded in shared values and long-standing diplomatic ties.

This year’s expo, themed "Solidarity and Cooperation for Common Development", runs until June 21, 2025 and fosters regional dialogue, reflecting the rising importance of South–South cooperation.

In his address, Nazim stressed the significance of the Maldives–China economic partnership, citing the Belt and Road Initiative and key infrastructure projects in the Maldives. He also raised concerns about climate change, praising the current administration’s proactive environmental policies and efforts to build national resilience.

Cautioning that global tensions subject small economies the likes of Maldives to economic strain, Nazim urged participating nations to strengthen cooperation and pursue strategies that build resilience and foster shared growth.