President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that the visit of the President of Seychelles Wavel Ramkalawan is an opportunity to develop the economic relationship between the two countries.
At a joint press conference, President Solih described the visit as a historic step forward in the bilateral relations between the Maldives and Seychelles. He also said the key agreements exchanged between the Maldives and Seychelles are an important step towards developing trade and economic activities between the two countries and that the visa waiver agreement will assist in the development of tourism.
Additionally, President Solih said that the two countries are far apart but share similarities in terms of the economy and environment. He highlighted the details of the official talks between both governments and said that the security of the Indian Ocean, climate change, and the environment are important issues advocated by both countries in the international arena. As such, he said that they are already working together to address climate change, environmental issues, and maritime safety and security. He added that the security of the Indian Ocean is of utmost importance to both countries and therefore it is important for them to work together to stop illegal fishing and criminal activities in the Indian Ocean.
Speaking at the joint press conference, President Ramkalawan expressed gratitude to President Solih for the invitation and the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and his delegation. He also noted that this is the first such official visit by the President of Seychelles and assured he will give his full cooperation to the joint efforts between the two countries.
Additionally, President Ramkalwan highlighted the importance of the visa waiver agreement and air service agreement as it will bridge the distance between the two countries and ease the convenience of citizens of Seychelles visiting the Maldives. He also praised the Maldives for its efforts to advocate on behalf of small island nations in the international arena, adding that Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid presiding over the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) was a great honour for a small country such as Seychelles.