UK and Maldives Expand Cooperation Across Security, Trade and Climate
The Maldives and the United Kingdom have agreed to deepen cooperation across security, trade, climate resilience and education, while continuing annual Strategic Dialogues to guide the bilateral relationship.
The latest dialogue followed previous rounds held in 2023 and 2025 and covered bilateral, regional and international priorities. Both governments committed to maintaining regular and structured engagement as cooperation expands into new areas.
Security discussions focused on defence cooperation, maritime security, counterterrorism and protective security. The UK committed to continue supporting Maldivian capacity development through technical assistance, training and practical cooperation involving the police, defence forces and maritime authorities.
The two sides also reviewed consular coordination, including cooperation between their respective authorities in assisting citizens and addressing shared consular matters.
Governance and institutional reform formed another part of the discussions. Officials exchanged views on criminal justice reform, judicial independence, human rights, democratic institutions and the rule of law. The UK expressed continued support for the Maldives’ efforts in these areas.
Economic discussions examined progress since the previous Strategic Dialogue and opportunities to increase trade and investment. The Maldives welcomed the UK’s decision to suspend tariffs on Maldivian tuna imports from 20 May 2026 until 31 December 2028.
Fisheries, tourism, renewable energy and financial services were identified as areas with potential for further commercial cooperation.
Education and human capital development were also discussed, with both countries recognising the contribution of Chevening and Commonwealth Scholarships to strengthening institutional and people-to-people links. Officials agreed to explore additional opportunities for education cooperation.
Tourism remains a major component of the relationship. More than 200,000 visitors from the UK travelled to the Maldives in 2025, contributing to tourism revenues and wider cultural and interpersonal connections between the two countries.
Climate change, marine conservation and environmental protection featured prominently in the dialogue. Building on work conducted through the Ocean Country Partnership Programme, both governments agreed to pursue further cooperation on ocean governance, marine conservation and climate resilience.
Officials also considered possible collaboration ahead of COP31, including the Maldives’ role in representing the priorities of Small Island Developing States and the Alliance of Small Island States.
The discussions extended to regional developments and cooperation through international institutions, including the United Nations and the Commonwealth. Both sides committed to working together on global challenges affecting small island states.
The dialogue was co-chaired by Laure Beaufils, Director for South Asia and Afghanistan at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and Dr Hala Hameed, Secretary at the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Senior officials from both governments participated.
