Ref: 2024/PR/23
The fifth meeting of the Joint Meeting Mechanism to deal with the issue of safety of Chinese Tourists in the Maldives was held at the Maagiri Hotel today. The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ms. Sheryna Abdul Samad and Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China in Maldives, H.E. Ms. Wang Lixin co-chaired the Joint Meeting.
As a follow-up on the Memorandum of Understanding concluded between the two Governments during the visit of His Excellency President Xi Jinping to the Maldives in September 2014, the Joint Meeting was held to discuss on the issue of safety of Chinese tourists in the Maldives.
In her opening remarks, State Minister Sheryna expressed delight at the rebound in tourist arrivals from China following the COVID-19 pandemic. China has now become the third-largest tourism market in the Maldives. She voiced optimism about a significant shift in the Maldives' tourist demographics with the introduction of direct flights from China, anticipating a considerable growth in arrivals from the country.
Emphasizing the commitment of the Maldivian government, she highlighted their dedication to enhancing and maintaining a secure environment for all tourists, including those from China. She underscored the significance of a dedicated platform to address key issues and implement effective measures, facilitating improved communication and coordination for the safety of Chinese tourists in the Maldives. The State Minister also acknowledged the positive outcomes achieved through this mechanism.
The Ambassador expressed gratitude to the Maldivian Government for its coordination and cooperation in guaranteeing a secure environment for Chinese tourists in the Maldives. The Ambassador reassured that this collaborative mechanism would enhance the joint endeavors of Maldives and China in ensuring the safety of Chinese tourists within the Maldives.
The Joint Meeting was attended by senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Embassy of China in Maldives, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Health, Maldives Immigration, Maldives Customs Service, Maldives Police Service, MNDF, MATI, MMPRC and other key stakeholders.
ENDS