On September 30, Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives Kong Xianhua was invited to give a television interview to The Press, a Maldivian media outlet. During the interview, Ambassador Kong elaborated China-Maldives relations, China’s foreign policy, the progress of China Aid projects in the Maldives, and future cooperation between the two countries. He explained China’s positions and views and responded positively to concerns in Maldivian public opinion regarding China-India competition and debt dependence.

Ambassador Kong said that, over the eight years since the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge opened to traffic, the bridge has not only improved the lives of the Maldivian people and contributed to the country’s development, but has also enhanced Maldivians’ understanding of China. It has demonstrated a partnership between countries of different sizes based on equality, mutual support and win-win cooperation. The greatest achievement of China-Maldives relations, he noted, is the trust built on the foundations of mutual respect, mutual benefit and common development.

Looking ahead, China will support the Maldives in fostering endogenous drivers of growth and deepen cooperation in areas including renewable energy, modern fisheries, agriculture and the digital economy. Through cooperation in technology and knowledge, the two sides will build an “invisible bridge” to strengthen the Maldives’ capacity for independent development and work together to build a peaceful, tranquil, prosperous, beautiful and friendly home.