Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthishaam Adam has concluded her official visit to China and departed from Kunming on Friday after participating in a series of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and bilateral ties.
The Foreign Minister travelled to Yunnan Province to attend the 7th China–South Asia Cooperation Forum, where she delivered a statement during the opening ceremony highlighting the importance of unity, dialogue and collective action in addressing the increasingly complex challenges facing the international community.
In her remarks, Minister Iruthishaam underscored the Maldives' commitment to promoting international peace and stability through diplomacy, dialogue and enhanced regional cooperation. She stressed that countries must work together to address common challenges and build a more secure and prosperous future.
The Minister also reflected on the growing partnership between the Maldives and China, noting that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's State Visit to China in 2024 marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations. She stated that the visit further strengthened the longstanding friendship between the two countries and elevated relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.
Expressing appreciation to the government and people of Yunnan Province, Minister Iruthishaam thanked them for their continued friendship and support towards the Maldives and its people. She reaffirmed the Maldivian government's commitment to expanding cooperation with China across a broad range of sectors.
Concluding her address, the Foreign Minister reiterated the Maldives' readiness to work closely with China and other regional partners to foster mutual understanding, strengthen cooperation and contribute to peace, stability and shared prosperity throughout the region.
During her visit, Minister Iruthishaam also attended the opening ceremony of the 10th China-South Asia Expo and toured the exhibition. She visited the stalls of Maldivian businesses participating in this year's event and met with local exhibitors showcasing Maldivian products and services.
Accompanying the Foreign Minister were the Maldives' Ambassador to China, Dr Fazeel Najeeb, Additional Secretary Amin Javed Faizal, Director Maryam Bassama Farooq of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Second Secretary at the Embassy of Maldives in China, Mizna Waheed.
