Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer has successfully concluded his official visit to the United States, which commenced on June 24. During this 4-day visit, Minister Zameer engaged in significant discussions aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations between the Maldives and the United States.
In Washington, Minister Zameer met with key US officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, members of the US Congress, and USAID Administrator Samantha Power. These meetings focused on enhancing cooperation between the two countries and addressing issues of mutual interest.
During his visit, Minister Zameer also engaged with the Council on Foreign Relations, a prominent US think tank. Discussions revolved around the foreign policies of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration and the government’s priorities. Additionally, the Minister took the opportunity to meet with Maldivians residing in the Washington area.
Minister Zameer then traveled to New York, where he met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres. The Secretary-General acknowledged the Maldives' leadership role at the SIDS4 Conference and other multilateral forums, particularly concerning climate change and financing for development. He reiterated the UN’s commitment to supporting sustainable development goals and ensuring global peace and security.
In another notable meeting, Minister Zameer discussed enhancing resilience, productivity, and capacity with Li Junhua, Under Secretary General of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA).
During his time in New York, Minister Zameer also engaged with the Maldivian community in New York and New Jersey over evening tea, assuring them that maintaining and enhancing consular services is a high priority. He hosted a working lunch for tour operators and travel advisors based in New York, emphasizing the importance of promoting Maldives tourism in the US market.
Furthermore, Minister Zameer met with the Ambassador of Palestine to the UN, Riyad Mansour, reiterating the Maldives' solidarity with Palestine and their right to self-determination. He called for an immediate end to the ongoing genocide in Gaza and expressed support for Palestine's admission as a full UN member.
Minister Zameer’s delegation included Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the UN, Ambassador Dr. Ali Naseer Mohamed, Secretary for Bilateral Affairs Dr. Hala Hameed, Senior Undersecretary Hassan Hussain Shihab, and Second Secretary at the Permanent Mission of the Maldives to the UN, Naufa Rushdi.
Throughout his visit, Minister Zameer demonstrated a strong commitment to advancing the Maldives' international relations and addressing the concerns of Maldivians living in the United States.