President Dr Mohamed Muizzu is set to make a historic official visit to the Republic of Estonia from 13 to 16 January 2025. This marks the first visit to Estonia by a sitting President of the Maldives, following an invitation from President Dr Alar Karis. The visit aims to deepen bilateral cooperation and explore opportunities for partnership across a range of critical areas.
Focus on Digital Transformation
The discussions during the visit will prioritise digital innovation, with an emphasis on e-governance and cyber technologies. Estonia’s global leadership in digital transformation, including its pioneering e-residency programme and advanced digital public services, offers valuable insights for the Maldives as it develops its own Digital Transformation Roadmap. President Muizzu has committed to establishing a robust digital economy, aiming for it to contribute up to 15% of the country’s GDP by 2030.
In addition to digital governance, the visit will delve into areas such as artificial intelligence. The Maldives’ ongoing AI readiness assessment, led by UNESCO, and its National AI Masterplan will feature prominently in discussions about leveraging Estonian expertise to drive technological advancement.
Climate and Education Partnerships
Climate and environmental issues will also be key themes of the visit. Estonia’s ambitious goals, including achieving climate neutrality by 2050, align closely with the Maldives’ efforts to address environmental challenges. The two nations will explore collaborations on renewable energy and sustainable practices, drawing on Estonia’s leadership in these areas.
The President will visit the University of Tartu, a prestigious institution ranked among the top 1% of the world’s universities in clinical medicine. This visit aims to foster cooperation in scientific research and higher education, with discussions centred on innovative research projects and knowledge sharing.
Strengthening Diplomatic and Institutional Ties
President Muizzu’s schedule includes meetings with Estonian President Dr Alar Karis and key government officials, including the Minister of Education and Research, Kristina Kallas, and the Minister of Climate, Yoko Alender. These engagements will focus on identifying practical avenues for collaboration between the two nations.
During his visit to Tartu, the President will be welcomed by Mayor Urmas Klaas and will tour key institutions such as the Estonian Genome Database Centre and the Greenergy Data Centre. A roundtable organised by the Digital Advisory Council to the President of Estonia will provide further opportunities for dialogue on technological and governance innovations.
Estonia’s Role as a Digital Leader
Estonia is internationally renowned for its digital transformation, ranking among the top in the world for digital governance. The country’s e-governance platforms and integrated public services have set a global standard, making it an ideal partner for nations seeking to modernise their technological infrastructure.
A Delegation Focused on Progress
President Muizzu will be accompanied by senior government officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel and Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan. A private delegation of leaders from the Maldives’ tech community will also participate, engaging with Estonian companies and institutions to explore joint ventures and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
