The Maldives government has signed a concept paper for a framework of cooperation with the government of Southwest China's Yunnan province, local media reported here Tuesday.

The agreement was signed by Multilateral Secretary at the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ali Naseer Mohamed and Director-General of Yunan province's Foreign Affairs Office Pu Hong.

The framework of cooperation aims to improve bilateral economic ties.

Earlier, Maldivian Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid welcomed Yunnan Provincial Governor Ruan Chengfa and his delegation to the Maldives. Both parties discussed deepening cooperation in trade, tourism, agriculture, sports and education.

Meanwhile, Maldivian Vice President Faisal Naseem also met with Ruan. Noting that this year marks 47 years of diplomatic ties between China and Maldives, Naseem acknowledged the importance of Chinese tourist arrivals to Maldives and the country's eagerness to continue development projects with China.