President Dr Mohamed Muizzu received Letters of Credence from twelve Non-Resident Ambassadors and High Commissioners at the President’s Office on Sunday morning. The ceremonies were held in accordance with official protocol and included a traditional procession known as “Haiykolhu,” accompanied by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Drum and Trumpet Band.
The envoys represent a diverse group of countries from Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America. Meetings following the credential presentations covered a range of bilateral topics, including trade, tourism, education, healthcare, and cultural cooperation.
Among those who presented credentials was the Ambassador of Paraguay, His Excellency Fleming Raul Duarte Ramos. Discussions included areas such as economic cooperation, education, tourism, and sports. Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Paraguay were established in 2010.
Cyprus’ High Commissioner, His Excellency Evagoras Vryonides, explored potential collaboration in tourism, education, and healthcare. The Maldives and Cyprus established diplomatic ties in 1987.
His Excellency Juan Antonio March Pujol, Ambassador of Spain, highlighted the growing number of Spanish visitors to the Maldives. Both parties discussed cooperation in trade, technology, and connectivity, particularly in light of the forthcoming terminal expansion at Velana International Airport. Relations between the two countries date back to 1979.
The Ambassador of Egypt, His Excellency Adel Ibrahim, focused on higher education and healthcare. Diplomatic relations were first established in 1969.
Ambassador of Iran, His Excellency Dr Alireza Delkhosh, discussed enhancing economic and technical cooperation. The President also reiterated the Maldives’ support for peace in the Middle East, referring to recent developments in the region.
His Excellency Conte Alassane, Ambassador of Guinea, discussed trade, investment, and environmental issues. Guinea and the Maldives established relations in 1983.
Kenya’s High Commissioner, His Excellency Peter Munyiri Maina, spoke with President Muizzu on expanding tourism and trade ties. Diplomatic relations between Kenya and the Maldives were formed in 1995.
Her Excellency May-Elin Stener, Ambassador of Norway, discussed investment opportunities in renewable energy and avenues for educational collaboration. The Maldives and Norway have had diplomatic relations since 1984.
Ambassador of Cambodia, Her Excellency Rath Many, highlighted cooperation in tourism, trade, and investment. Ties between the two countries were established in 1995.
His Excellency Lukmon Bobokalonzoda, Ambassador of Tajikistan, discussed opportunities in healthcare, education, and tourism. The Maldives and Tajikistan formalised diplomatic relations in 1993.
Algeria’s Ambassador, His Excellency Dr Abdenor Khelifi, addressed areas of interest including trade, training for religious scholars, and cultural ties. Diplomatic relations with Algeria were established in 1988.
Finally, His Excellency Dr Purna Bahadur Nepali, Ambassador of Nepal, discussed cooperation in health, agriculture, and education. The Maldives and Nepal have maintained diplomatic relations since 1980.
The presentations reflect the ongoing engagement between the Maldives and its international partners, with discussions focused on mutual areas of interest.
