The newly appointed Ambassadors of Portugal, Belgium and Spain to Maldives formally presented their credentials to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Sunday.
Portugal Ambassador Jose’ De Pinho Pereira, Belgium Ambassador Franҫois Delhave, and Spain Ambassador José Ramón Barañano Fernández presented their credentials in separate ceremonies held at the President’s Office.
President Solih expressed hopes of strengthening diplomatic ties between Maldives and the countries represented by the Ambassadors.
During President Solih's meeting with Portuguese Ambassador Pereira’s courtesy, both the President and Ambassador acknowledged the historical encounters between the Maldives and Portugal many centuries ago, whilst emphasising that the future held more importance.
Both the President and Ambassador Pereira expressed mutual hope that Portugal and Maldives could begin a new chapter in positive cooperation on numerous avenues, including in sport, economic development, and renewable energy.
Ambassador Pereira stated that it was a privilege to represent his country to Maldives and expressed the positive hope that bonds between Maldives and Portugal will further strengthen during his tenure.
After a brief ceremony with Belgium Ambassador Delhave, President Solih expressed his desire for Belgium and Maldives could increase international cooperation. The President also reiterated the administration’s commitment to progressing on the issues of human rights, climate change and good governance, and welcomed the prospect of cooperation with Belgium within these important spheres.
Furthermore, President Solih highlighted that the EU policy dialogue was scheduled for late March and that Maldives would host the partnership forum in June. He conveyed hopes that the dialogue would pave way for constructive engagements between Belgium and Maldives and facilitate investment and economic cooperation.
Ambassador Delhave reciprocated the President’s positive sentiments and expressed the desire to build on the existing positive relations during his ambassadorial tenure.
During his meeting with the Spain Ambassador Fernández, President Solih further emphasized the importance that Maldives placed on relations with Spain, and highlighted several avenues which the two countries could cooperate on. These include economic cooperation within the fields of tourism, fisheries and agriculture; as well as renewable energy.
Ambassador Fernández stated that it was a privilege to represent his country to the Maldives, and reiterated the President’s sentiments regarding strengthening relations between the two countries.
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