New Chinese ambassador presents credentials amid criticism of Sino-Maldives ties

Zhang Lizhong, the new Chinese ambassador to the Maldives, presented his credentials to President Abdulla Yameen at a ceremony Tuesday morning.

According to the president’s office, Yameen “assured full commitment to bolster existing bilateral relations” and expressed gratitude for the development partnership, highlighting flagship “mega projects” to build the China-Maldives Friendship Bridge and upgrade the main international airport.

“He firmly reiterated the government’s commitment to the One-China Policy, the policy that endorses China as the legitimate and rightful representative of the aspirations of all Chinese people,” the president’s office said.

“The president also expressed appreciation for China’s cooperation with the Maldives in advancing mutual interests on various international fora, for the common benefit of the two countries and their peoples.”