The Non-Resident Ambassador of Palestine along with new envoys from five other countries presented their credentials to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Thursday.
The new Ambassadors were individually escorted from Republic Square to the President’s Office in a traditional “Haiykolhu” cultural procession, accompanied by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Drum and Trumpet Band.
Palestine
Following the presentation, the Ambassador Non-Resident Ambassador of the State of Palestine to the Maldives, Ihab Ibrahim Mohamed Khalil conveyed his heartfelt appreciation for the Maldives’ steadfast support for the Palestinian cause. He noted that the Maldives’ consistent stance and advocacy on the international stage have had a significant impact.
President Dr Muizzu also reaffirmed the Maldives’ unwavering commitment to supporting Palestine, emphasising that this support would remain resolute. Both the President and the Ambassador expressed a shared interest in strengthening bilateral relations.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and the State of Palestine were formally established on 4 April 1982.
Zimbabwe
The Non-Resident Ambassador of Zimbabwe to the Maldives, Stella Nkomo was warmly welcomed by the President following her presentation.
The two engaged in discussions on matters of mutual interest, during which the Ambassador highlighted the potential for strengthening bilateral relations. Both sides expressed a shared commitment to expanding economic cooperation, with a particular focus on the exchange of expertise in the tourism sector.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and the Republic of Zimbabwe were established on 7 January 1987.
Uzbekistan
After presenting his credentials, the Non-Resident Ambassador of Uzbekistan to the Maldives, Sardor Rustambaev and the President discussed potential areas of collaboration, including trade, economic development, and the expansion of educational cooperation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening the close bilateral relations between the two nations.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Uzbekistan were established on 7 December 1994.
Denmark
President Dr Muizzu after welcoming the Non-Resident Ambassador of Denmark to the Maldives, Rasmus Abildgaard Kristensenand, explored avenues to further strengthen cooperation between the Maldives and Denmark, with a particular focus on economic development, climate change, and renewable energy.
The President reaffirmed the Maldives’ high regard for its relationship with Denmark and expressed appreciation for Denmark’s continued support in the country’s development efforts. He also acknowledged the significant number of tourist arrivals from Denmark and expressed optimism for further growth, especially with the enhanced connectivity expected from the opening of the new terminal.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Denmark were established on 8 November 1982.
Greece
Following the presentation of credentials by the Non-Resident Ambassador of the Hellenic Republic to the Maldives, Aliki Koutsomitopoulou, the President and the Ambassador discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the Maldives and Greece. Key areas of focus included economic collaboration, educational exchange, tourism promotion, and joint efforts in addressing climate change.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to working closely together to explore new avenues of cooperation that would contribute to the mutual prosperity and well-being of both nations.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Greece were established on 17 September 1983.
Uganda
The Non-Resident High Commissioner of Uganda to the Maldives, Professor Joyce Kakuramatsi Kikafunda was welcomed by President Dr Muizzu who conveyed his best wishes for a successful tenure. The President and the High Commissioner engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral ties between the Maldives and Uganda, with a focus on enhancing cooperation in areas such as economic development, climate resilience, education, and tourism.
President Dr Muizzu expressed appreciation for Uganda’s interest in deepening its engagement with the Maldives and affirmed the Government’s commitment to fostering mutual understanding and collaboration. He also acknowledged the potential for further strengthening ties through people-to-people contact, cultural exchange, and trade relations.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Uganda were established on 30 November 1993.