China, Maldives sign free trade pact

China and the Maldives signed 12 documents, including a free trade agreement, to boost cooperation in such areas as economy, health, infrastructure and finance on Thursday.

The agreements and memorandums of understandings were signed as President Xi Jinping and visiting Maldives President Abdulla Yameen witnessed while at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

According to the documents, the two countries will enhance cooperation on jointly developing the Belt and Road Initiative.