President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has commenced his official visit to China at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.

The Maldivian President arrived in Beijing on Sunday, where he was warmly received at the Beijing Capital International Airport by China’s Minister of Emergency Management Wang Xiangxi, Maldives’ Ambassador to China Dr. Fazeel Najeeb, and China’s Ambassador to the Maldives Kong Xinhua.

The welcome ceremony featured an Honour Guard and a cultural performance in recognition of the visit.

During his stay, President Muizzu will hold bilateral discussions with President Xi Jinping and other senior officials to explore avenues for enhanced cooperation.

He will also participate in key engagements at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit, where he is scheduled to address the SCO Plus meeting.

In his address, President is expected to emphasize the need for strengthened multilateral collaboration to tackle pressing global challenges, including climate change, economic fragmentation, and rising geopolitical tensions.

The SCO, established in 2001 by China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, has grown into the world’s largest regional organization in terms of population and geographical coverage.

With 10 member states and multiple dialogue partners, including the Maldives, the bloc plays a central role in regional security, economic cooperation, and political dialogue across Eurasia.