Thoriq Ibrahim, the former Environment Minister who has been appointed as Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), presented his ambassador credentials yesterday to the UAE government.

According to the UAE's Foreign Ministry website, newly-appointed Ambassador Thoriq presented his credentials to Omar Obaid Alhesan Alshamsi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The Foreign Ministry stated that during the meeting, Alshamsi welcomed the new ambassador, and that he wished Thoriq success in carrying out his responsibilities.

The UAE's undersecretary gave his assurance that the UAE will always work to strengthen the relationship they have with Maldives for the benefit of both nations and its citizens.

UAE's Foreign Ministry stated that Thoriq praised the nation's notable regional and international progress under President of the UAE Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's leadership, along with his hope to further strengthen and expand the relationship between both countries in various industries.

Diplomatic relations between Maldives and the UAE were established on 15th March 1978.

Thoriq was appointed as the Ambassador to the UAE by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on Thursday. The appointment was approved by the Parliament on 22nd June.

Thoriq succeeds former ambassador Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundhu), who vacated the post after resigning on 6th April to take up the role of Chief Government Spokesperson.

Thoriq previously served as Environment Minister under the administrations of former Presidents Mohamed Waheed Hassan and Abdulla Yameen. He was appointed Environment Minister when President Muizzu first formed his cabinet and later led the tourism ministry as well from February 2025. He resigned from the cabinet in April.