China and Maldives sign FTA

The two countries should seize the opportunities of signing the free trade agreement and the memorandum of understanding on jointly working on the Belt and Road Initiative, invigorate bilateral economic and trade cooperation, push forward cooperation on major projects and promote investment, finance and maritime cooperation, Xi said.

China hopes that the Maldives will continue to support regional cooperation with South Asian countries to promote the region's prosperity, Xi said.

Since establishing diplomatic relations 45 years ago, the two countries have treated each other equally, cooperated for win-win outcomes and supported each other on issues related to their core interests, Xi said.

During the meeting, Xi expressed gratitude for Yameen's congratulatory letter on the success of the CPC's 19th National Congress and his re-election as general secretary of the CPC Central Committee.

Noting his government attaches great importance to its relations with China, Yameen said the countries could enhance cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative.

It is of great importance for China to set Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era as an action guideline of the CPC Central Committee, he told Xi. "I am confident under the guidance of the CPC Central Committee with your excellency as the core, the Chinese people will move forward to achieve your centenary goals and build China into a great modern socialist country," he said.