On May 20, 2023, Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu met with Chairman of the Special Olympics International Board of Directors Timothy Shriver, and exchanged views with him on cooperation between China and the Special Olympics International Board of Directors.

Ma Zhaoxu said under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, the Chinese government has firmly followed the people-centered philosophy of development, and attached great importance to protecting the rights and interests of people with disabilities, including people with intellectual disabilities, making remarkable historical achievements in promoting the causes related to people with disabilities. The Chinese side appreciates the contributions of the Special Olympics International Board of Directors in promoting the global development of the Special Olympics movement and in improving the conditions of people with intellectual disabilities. China will continue to support the work of the Special Olympics International Board of Directors and work with the international community to constantly push forward the Special Olympics movement.

Timothy Shriver spoke positively of China's achievements in protecting the rights of people with disabilities, carrying out inclusive education, and advancing international cooperation in the field of people with disabilities. He is looking forward to deepening cooperation with the Chinese side and further promoting the development of the Special Olympics movement across the globe.