The Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Maldives James Dauris, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, on Sunday.

The discussion between the two focused mainly on issues of bilateral significance and ways to reinforce diplomatic ties between the countries.

During the discussion, Minister Shahid expressed the government’s decision to rejoin the Commonwealth of Nations and highlighted the administration's willingness to play an active role in contributing to and benefiting from the Commonwealth.

Additionally, Minister Shahid assured that the Maldives will continue working with UK on key areas such as climate change and education.

Head of South Asia Department at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office Fergus Auld, accompanied Ambassador Dauris during the visit.

The President officially requested Maldives to be readmitted into the Commonwealth early December 2018.

Reintegrating the country back into the Commonwealth is part of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s first '100-day' pledges.