The government of the Maldives has strongly reiterated its request for the European Union (EU) to grant duty-free access to Maldivian fisheries products. The request was made at the Sixth Maldives-EU Policy Dialogue.
The purpose of the annual dialogue is to facilitate open and constructive engagement between the Maldives and the EU to further strengthen the existing ties of friendship and cooperation between the Maldives and the EU.
This year’s dialogue was co-chaired by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid and Ambassador of the EU to the Maldives Denis Chaibi, with the participation of ambassadors representing 17 EU member countries as well as senior officials of the Government of the Maldives. The dialogue included discussions on democracy, governance, strengthening of the justice sector, security cooperation, trade, tourism, investment, finance and economic cooperation, environment and climate change, and Schengen Visa facilitation.
During the dialogue, the government shared policy priorities and progress on consolidating democracy and ensuring good governance. The EU countries reiterated their commitment to continue supporting the Maldives in strengthening the governance and justice sectors. They also addressed security cooperation including countering terrorism and violent extremism, maritime safety and security, civil defense, aviation security, the safety of tourists, and capacity building of intelligence agencies.
Additionally, the government also gave an update on the COVID-19 economic recovery and highlighted potential investment opportunities for European businesses.