The Foreign Relations Committee of the Parliament has approved Aishath Azeema’s appointment as the High Commissioner of Maldives to India. Her nomination, put forward by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, follows the decision to replace the current High Commissioner, Ibrahim Shaheeb.
During the committee’s meeting, Parliamentarian Abdullah Rifau proposed conducting an interview with Azeema. However, Parliamentarian Mohamed Dhawoodh suggested bypassing the interview process, citing Azeema’s extensive qualifications and experience in foreign affairs. The committee agreed, unanimously approving her appointment after receiving support from other members.
Azeema brings over three decades of experience to the role, having served in a range of positions within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs since 1988. Her distinguished career includes roles such as Ambassador to China and Deputy Ambassador of the Maldives to the UK. Additionally, she has held key positions as Additional Secretary and Joint Secretary at the Ministry.
The committee’s decision reflects confidence in Azeema’s capabilities, though bypassing an interview raises questions about the depth of scrutiny in the selection process. On the one hand, her longstanding service and expertise may have made the interview unnecessary; on the other, some may view the lack of direct questioning as a missed opportunity to explore her vision for this important diplomatic role. Nonetheless, Azeema’s appointment marks a significant step in the Maldives’ diplomatic relations with India.
