Visiting Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi on Sunday held talks with Maldivian Foreign Minister Fathulla Jameel in Capital Male, stressing further cooperation between the two countries in all fields.  

During their talks, Wu said that the Chinese government has always attached importance to the development of long time, stable, friendly and cooperative relations with the Maldives.

Both sides have mutual respect and equal treatment towards each other during the past 32 years of diplomatic relationship, she added.

During the period, she said, the political relationship between the two countries has been strengthened steadily and the exchange in the fields of economy have been increased and the cooperation in the fields of tourism, education and fishery have also been gradually expanded.

Wu noted that the strengthening of the friendly cooperation between China and the Maldives is in compliance with the fundamental interests of the two countries as well as in favor of safeguarding the legal rights and interests of the developing countries.

She said that all countries, small or large, are equal and the Chinese government is willing to make efforts in safeguarding the sovereignty and security of the vast medium and small seized countries including the Maldives.

Wu said that the Chinese government will continue to provide the Maldives with due aid to promote the economic and trade relations between the two countries.

She also said that China will also encourage the Chinese enterprises to invest in the Maldives and promote cooperation in the areas of fishery, tourism and the processing of aquatic and sea products.

On his part, Jameel said that the Maldives and China enjoy close relationship on the basis of mutual understanding.

He said that the Maldivian government appreciates the valuable assistance China has rendered to the social and economic development in his country.

He said that China, as an important member in the international community, plays an important and active role in safeguarding the world peace and security.

The Maldivian government, he said, attaches great importance to the development of its relations with China from the strategic point of view and hopes for joint safeguarding of the interests of developing countries through close consultations with China.

Jameel also expressed his hope that the two countries will further their cooperation in the fields of direct trade, investment and tourism.

He reiterated that the Maldivian government is committed to the one-China policy.

Following their talks, the two sides signed five agreements including that of trade and economic cooperation between the two governments.

Prior to their talks, Wu and Jameel were present at the foundation stone laying ceremony of the foreign ministry building which is donated by China.

Wu arrived here on Saturday for an official visit at the invitation of the Maldivian government.

(Xinhua News Agency March 29, 2004)