His Excellency Mr. Wang Fukang Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the Republic of Maldives,
Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and gentlemen,
Good Evening….
On behalf of the Government and people of the Maldives, and my own behalf I wish to extend, my warm felicitations and sincere good wishes to His Excellency Mr. Wang Fukang, Ambassador of China to the Maldives, for the appointment of His Excellency as the second resident Ambassador of China to the Maldives.
Let me also take this opportunity to send warm greeting to everyone observing the Chinese New Year. This ancient annual festival unites people of Chinese heritage around the globe in a joyous celebration of hope and new beginning.
There's a very deep and rich relationship between Maldives and China, as we take note of the 41 years of diplomatic relations between Maldives and China, I do wish profoundly that we continue to do everything we can to build the relationship between Maldives and China. It is a strong and vibrant relationship. Today, relations between the Maldives and China are founded on mutual respect, shared principles and values and common understanding on issues of global importance.
Maldives has always looked to China as an invaluable friend whose contribution to the social, cultural and economic development of Maldives is immense. There's the great excitement about our economies. Some of the projects, some of the businesses underway are thrilling. There's so much that we share together. Trade between the Maldives and China has increased significantly in the past few years and China remains one of the largest trading partners of the Maldives.
I have no doubt that the traditional bonds of friendship and cooperation that we have enjoyed over the past four decades will continue to grow and expand in the years to come. China continues to be a close partner of the Maldives in diverse spheres.
I would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Government and people of China, for the warmth in the official ties, as well as the generosity and continued support for the Maldives. On behalf of the Government and the people of Maldives, I reassure that Maldives will always support the Government and people of China in every way possible.
Once again, on this momentous occasion, let me convey best wishes for continued peace, prosperity and progress of the people of China.