The discussions included potential collaboration on promoting Maldivian sports and initiating an athlete exchange programme between the two nations.
Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu has said that discussions have been had to strengthen ties with Xiamen City, China, to promote sports development in Maldives.
In an interview with Xinhua Global Service during his visit to China, Minister Rafiu highlighted discussions on leveraging Xiamen’s advancements in technology and sports.
The discussions included potential collaboration on promoting Maldivian sports and initiating an athlete exchange programme between the two nations.
Minister Rafiu was in China as a special guest at the C&D Xiamen Marathon 2025. He also attended the ceremonial gunfire that marked the marathon's start.
The event, organized annually by the China Athletics Association and World Athletics, drew participation from 35,000 athletes representing 42 countries.
The invitation to the Xiamen Marathon came about following last year’s Xiamen Laamu Marathon, held in Laamu atoll, Maldives.
Minister Rafiu completed the 5km race during the Xiamen Marathon.
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