Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has sent a message of greetings on the occasion of the Europe Day to the High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the Commission, Josep Borrell Fontelles.
In his message, Minister Shahid conveyed warm felicitations of Europe Day on behalf of the government and the people of the Maldives, to the members of the EU. The foreign minister stated the partnership between the Maldives and the EU has continued to flourish over the past years, notably in the areas of climate change, counter terrorism, judicial and anti-corruption reform, democratic consolidation, and human rights, among others. He added the generous financial and technical assistance provided to the Maldives by the EU to manage the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impacts, stand as a strong testament of the strength of the enduring cooperation.
Furthermore, Minister Shahid noted the EU remains as an essential trading partner for the Maldives, not only because it is one of the main markets for Maldivian fisheries exports, but because it is also the leading tourism market for Maldives comprising 70% of the tourist arrival share. He expressed hope that the strong relations between the Maldives and the EU will continue to prosper.