Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed and the visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi on Tuesday pledged to work closely on climate change and other global issues.

Nasheed said his country appreciated the important and active role played by China in the Copenhagen Climate Change Conference held last month.

He said the Maldives is looking forward to strengthening its cooperation with China in dealing with global issues including climate change.

Nasheed said his country respects China's sovereignty and core interests, adding that the Maldives will not do anything that might hurt China's core interests and the two countries' relationship.

Yang said China will continue to work closely with the Maldives on climate change and other issues, promoting the interests of developing countries including those of Small Island Developing States.

The two leaders said they were satisfied with the good relationship between the two countries and pledged to promote the cooperation in the areas of economy, trade, tourism and fishing.

Yang also held talks with Maldivian Foreign Minister Ahmed Shaheed in the visit.

Yang arrived Tuesday afternoon on his way of paying official visits to five African nations and Saudi Arabia. He is expected to leave Maldives Wednesday morning to continue his tour.

(Xinhua News Agency January 6, 2010)