President Xi of China is set to host a visit from Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, marking the first state visit by the Maldivian leader to a foreign country since taking office in November. The two leaders are expected to sign several cooperation agreements during the visit, covering various fields including politics, economy, culture, and green development. President Muizzu, known as a pro-China politician, won the presidential runoff in September, defeating the India-friendly incumbent. The two countries have a long-standing friendship dating back 52 years, and have seen deepening cooperation over the past decade.

Both China and the Maldives see great importance in this visit, which is expected to elevate bilateral relations to a new level. The state-run Global Times noted that this progress is a result of consistent adherence to mutual respect and support between large and small nations. This visit is viewed as an example of equal treatment and mutually beneficial cooperation, and may serve as a reference for other countries wishing to develop normal diplomatic relations.

This visit is a significant step in the strategic guidance that the two leaders are expected to provide, catapulting the China-Maldives relationship to a new height. The two countries aim to build a future-oriented all-around friendly and cooperative partnership, further solidifying their already strong ties.