In her farewell message, Ambassador Wang Lixin, China’s envoy to the Maldives, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve in what she described as the “beautiful and friendly” nation during her 3.5-year tenure. Reflecting on her time in the Maldives, she emphasised the steady progress made in strengthening the ties between the two nations.

Ambassador Wang highlighted the deepening partnership between China and the Maldives, which reached a significant milestone with its 50th anniversary in 2022. She praised the relationship as a model of mutual respect and cooperation between countries of different sizes, underscoring its enduring importance and mutual benefits.

A particularly noteworthy moment of her tenure was the commemoration of the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping’s historic state visit to the Maldives. That visit, she noted, had spurred transformative initiatives, including the construction of the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge, the expansion of Velana International Airport, and the implementation of social housing projects. She observed that these developments have not only supported the Maldives’ national progress but also significantly enhanced the quality of life for its people.

Ambassador Wang also reflected on the visit of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to China in January 2024, at the invitation of President Xi. This visit resulted in the elevation of bilateral ties to a “comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership,” which she described as a new peak in the nations’ relations. She remarked on the shared commitment to this strengthened partnership, reflected in ongoing collaborative infrastructure and development efforts.

Among the continuing projects she highlighted were the construction of the 100-bed China-Maldives Friendship Hospital in Vilimalé and the redevelopment of roads in Malé and Vilimalé. Beyond infrastructure, she pointed to the flourishing cooperation in trade, tourism, agriculture, and fisheries, which demonstrate the breadth of collaboration between the two countries.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Wang conveyed her confidence in the future of Sino-Maldivian relations, drawing on an ancient Chinese poem to symbolise her optimism for sustained growth and collaboration. She expressed her belief that the Maldives would continue to thrive as a resilient and vibrant presence on the global stage.

As she concluded her message, Ambassador Wang extended her heartfelt thanks to the Maldivian Government and its people for their support throughout her tenure. She expressed deep appreciation for the friendships she had formed and shared her commitment to cherishing the memories of her time in the Maldives. Her farewell reflected her hopes for the continued success of the Maldives and the enduring strength of its partnership with China.