China Maldives Communique Establishing Diplomatic Relations

The Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Maldives in conformity with the interests of the two countries and in accordance with the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, equality and mutual benefit have agreed to the establishment of diplomatic relations effective from October 14, 1972 between the two countries and exchange diplomatic representatives at ambassadorial level.

The Government of the Republic of Maldives recognizes that the Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government of China and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People's Republic of China.

The Government of the People's Republic of China respects the policy of neutrality pursued by the Government of the Republic of Maldives.

The two Government agree to develop friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries based on the principles of mutual respect for sovereignty, mutual non-aggression, non-interference in each other's internal affairs and mutual benefit.

(Signed) Ma Tzu-ching (Signed) Hussain Ali Didi

Ambassador of the People's Ambassador of the Republic

Republic of China to the of Maldives to the

Republic of Sri Lanka Republic of Sri Lanka

October 14,1972