China poised to offer new opportunities for cooperation to the Maldives and world, says Wang Yi

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday said China is poised to offer new opportunities for cooperation.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, made the remarks during a meeting with his Maldivian counterpart Moosa Zameer in Beijing.

Noting the just-concluded third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee put forward over 300 reform measures, Wang said a clear signal has been given that China will further expand its high level of opening up.

"I believe it will offer new opportunities for cooperation with all countries in the world, including the Maldives," the Chinese foreign minister said.

Wang recalled that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 52 years ago, China and the Maldives have always respected and supported each other, setting an example of equal treatment and win-win cooperation despite the difference in the size of the countries.

"There are no problems between the two countries, only friendship and cooperation," Wang said.

He said China is willing to support the Maldives in its economic and social development and help the island nation enhance its capacity for independent and sustainable development to the best of its ability.

Wang said China would also like to strengthen multilateral cooperation with the Maldives, jointly tackle global challenges and promote the common interests of developing countries and safeguard peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region.

Zameer extended congratulations on the successful conclusion of the third plenum.

China's further deepening reform comprehensively and the advancement of Chinese modernization will bring more benefits to the world, he said, adding it is crucial for all countries in the world, especially developing countries, to join hands in addressing global challenges and maintaining world peace and prosperity.

The foreign minister expressed gratitude for China's assistance toward the Maldives' economic and social development over the years.

Zameer reiterated that the Maldives firmly abides by the one-China principle and is willing to continue to participate in the Belt and Road Initiative and further deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in economy, trade, tourism, culture and other fields.

Zameer is on an official visit to China from July 20 to 24.