On May 26, 2008, Chinese State Councilor Dai Bingguo met in Beijing with visiting Foreign Minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid.

Dai said China and Maldives are traditional friendly neighbors and the friendly exchanges between the two peoples go back to ancient times. Recent years have witnessed deepening political trust, expanding exchanges and cooperation in all areas and mutual support in international and regional affairs. He said he hopes the two countries will take the opportunity of the opening-up of Maldives' embassy in Beijing to further expand bilateral personnel exchanges, consolidate traditional friendship and strengthen win-win cooperation, so as to push forward bilateral traditional friendly relations.

Shahid said his country is ready to offer support for China's relief work, expressing sympathy and condolences for relatives of the quake victims. Students from Maldives also made donations and donated blood to support the relief efforts, he noted. Shahid reiterated his government's adherence to the one-China policy, and praised China's preparation for the Beijing Olympic Games. He also wished the games a great success.