China–South Asia Friendship Forum Opens in Maldives, Highlighting Civil Diplomacy and Regional Unity

The 9th China–South Asia Friendship Organizations Forum was inaugurated today at Crossroads Maldives, marking a historic first for the Maldives as host of one of South Asia’s leading platforms for people-to-people diplomacy. The four-day forum, held under the theme “Mutual Learning, Peace, Prosperity for a Shared Future,” brings together representatives from China and six South Asian nations, Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives, alongside diplomats, cultural envoys, and civil society leaders.

Former President Dr. Mohamed Waheed delivered the keynote address as chief guest at the opening ceremony, extending greetings on behalf of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. In his remarks, Dr. Waheed emphasized that “mutual learning” is not merely an exchange of ideas but “the willingness to listen to each other’s histories, appreciate each other’s cultures, and recognize that our futures are intertwined.”

Speaking before delegates and guests including H.E. Dr. Yang Wanming, President of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), Dr. Waheed described the forum’s venue, Crossroads Maldives, as a living symbol of cooperation. “This entire chain of islands, created from an empty lagoon, stands as a reminder that when we design, invest, and build together, we can literally create new land, new opportunities, and new shared futures on the blue canvas of the Indian Ocean,” he said.

Reflecting on lessons from his visit to Shandong Province and participation in the Confucius Cultural Festival, the former president spoke of the enduring relevance of Confucian values such as harmony, respect, and learning. He urged regional leaders to translate those principles into modern cooperation through education, art, and sustainable investment.

“Concrete, well-governed investments, in power grids, schools, hospitals, cultural centers, and even new islands are how our ideals translate into prosperity that people can see and touch,” he said, underscoring the importance of coupling friendship with tangible development outcomes.

Dr. Waheed also acknowledged the contributions of Ambassador Mohamed Rasheed, President of the China–Maldivian Cultural Association (CMCA), and current chair of the Organization of South Asian Regional Friendship and Cooperation with China (OSARFCC), recognizing his pivotal role in strengthening ties between the Maldives and China.

Attendees at the inauguration included senior representatives from friendship associations, provincial foreign affairs offices across China, and regional partners. Special recognition was given to Mr. Wang Weibing, President of the Beijing Alumni Association of the Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business, whose organization supported the forum’s arrangements.

The forum continues through November 15, featuring panel discussions, cultural exchanges, and networking sessions aimed at fostering regional understanding and collaborative partnerships under the broader China–South Asia framework.