President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s official visit to Estonia is underway, marking the first time a Head of State from the Maldives has visited the Baltic nation. Invited by Estonian President Dr Alar Karis, President Muizzu arrived with a high-level delegation, including representatives from the Maldives’ technology sector, aiming to explore opportunities for collaboration.
The visit commenced with a ceremonial welcome at Kadriorg Palace, where President Dr Karis greeted President Muizzu. The Estonian military played the national anthems of both countries, followed by a Guard of Honour inspection. Maldivian and Estonian dignitaries were introduced before both Presidents took a commemorative photograph and President Muizzu signed the Visitor’s Book.
Focus Areas of Bilateral Discussions
In a meeting held at the Presidential Palace, President Muizzu and President Karis engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening ties between the Maldives and Estonia. The dialogue focused on areas including tourism, education, climate resilience, and digital innovation.
President Muizzu expressed interest in learning from Estonia’s expertise in renewable energy, smart grids, and sustainable technologies. Both leaders also shared perspectives on international security and reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration in multilateral platforms.
Educational Collaboration with Estonia
As part of the visit, President Muizzu met with Estonia’s Minister of Education and Research, Ms Kristina Kallas. The President praised Estonia’s world-class education system and expressed an interest in adapting its innovative strategies to the Maldives.
Discussions included the possibility of scholarships and capacity-building initiatives for Maldivian students. Minister Kallas provided an overview of Estonia’s educational advancements, identifying potential areas for collaboration.
Climate Action and Renewable Energy Cooperation
In another significant engagement, President Muizzu met with Estonia’s Minister of Climate, Ms Yoko Alender, at the Joint Building of Ministries. The discussions centred on climate resilience, with President Muizzu highlighting the Maldives’ commitment to adopting sustainable energy solutions and reducing carbon emissions.
Minister Alender emphasised Estonia’s willingness to support Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like the Maldives through innovative renewable energy solutions and scalable digital strategies.
The meeting concluded with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two nations to enhance cooperation in climate change, environmental resilience, and energy. The MoU was signed by Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel of the Maldives and Minister Alender of Estonia.
President Muizzu’s visit to Estonia represents a significant step in strengthening bilateral ties and exploring innovative solutions to shared challenges. The focus on digital technology, climate resilience, and education underscores the Maldives’ aspirations to leverage international expertise for national development.
