Maldives, European Union conclude fifth Policy Dialogue

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on Monday, announced the conclusion of the Fifth Maldives-European Union Policy Dialogue.

According to a joint press release, the virtual dialogue painted special focus on the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, particularly on the efforts to contain and achieve a resilient recovery from the pandemic and to build back better.

While the Maldivian delegation was led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, and consisted of Cabinet Ministers and senior government officials from relevant government agencies, the EU delegation was led by the EU Ambassador to Maldives Denis Chaibi and consisted of several member states to the EU.

Discussions covered a wide variety of thematic areas, including governance, judicial sector reform, the promotion and protection of human rights.

Tackling the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Maldives shared its action plan on a resilient post-recovery, and was formulated to ensure sustainability and meaningful socio-economic development.

Maldives also reiterated its request to eliminate tariffs on Maldivian fish exports to the European Union by establishing the EU's Generalised Scheme of Presences (GSP).

In response, the EU member states expressed interest to remain exploring opportunities for the Maldivian fisheries industry.

Moreover, the EU also noted Maldives' request to explore expanding the Schengen Visa facilitation process in the country.

The Maldives-EU Policy Dialogue is an annually held forum to facilitate open and constructive engagement between the two parties to further strengthen existing ties of friendship and cooperation.