China has granted a visa exemption for Maldivians to travel to China.
As part of the celebrations to mark the golden jubilee’s 50th anniversary since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the Maldives, China’s foreign minister Wang Yi arrived in the Maldives yesterday. He was greeted by the foreign minister and UNGA President Abdulla Shahid at the Velana International Airport (VIA).
During today’s ceremony, several MoUs were signed between the nations to further strengthen diplomatic relations and important areas such as infrastructure development, health, and travel. One of the key MoUs that were signed today was to grant visa exemption to travel to China for Maldivians and vice versa.
As part of this agreement, Maldivians will receive a 30-day on-arrival visa upon entry. However, the exemption will come into effect once China has lifted its COVID-19 restrictions.
Moreover, China agreed to establish an orthopedic clinic in the Maldives and to develop a clean water system in five atolls. The project is worth almost MVR 199 million under their free aid program. As part of the project, a seawater desalination plant will be developed at K. Kaashidhoo, Lh. Olhuvelifushi, HA. Kelaa, R. Alifushi, and GA. Dhaandhoo.
Furthermore, to aid the Maldives’ economic growth and urban development, China agreed to provide free aid of MVR 968 million. China also renewed the agreement to maintain and renovate the Sinamale’ bridge.
China’s foreign minister Wang Yi is also set to meet President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih who is currently visiting Shaviyani atoll for the bi-election campaign.
In commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Foreign Minister Shahid and State Councilor Wang Yi both reiterated that Maldives and China will increase their cooperation both bilaterally, through economic and development cooperation, health cooperation, in international fora such as the United Nations.
