China has stated that it firmly opposes external interference in the internal affairs of the Maldives.

In a joint statement issued today, the two sides stated that they agree to continue firmly supporting each other in safeguarding their respective core interests.

As such, the statement added that China firmly supports the Maldives in upholding its national sovereignty, independence and national dignity, respects and supports the Maldives' exploration of a development path that suits its national conditions, and firmly opposes external interference in the internal affairs of the Maldives.

"The Maldives is firmly committed to the one-China principle, recognizing that there is but one China in the world, the Government of the People's Republic of China is the sole legal government representing the whole of China, and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory," the statement added.

It further highlighted that the Maldives opposes any statement or action that undermines China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, opposes all "Taiwan independence" separatist activities, and will not develop any form of official relations with Taiwan. The Maldives opposes external interference in China's internal affairs under any pretext and supports all efforts made by China to achieve national reunification.

China has said it is against external influence in Maldivian internal affairs at a time when its long-standing relations with neighboring India have weakened. President Muizzu has earlier said that the presence of any country's troops in the Maldives is a threat to Maldivian security.