President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has stated that Malaysia has been a reliable, consistent, and a staunch supporter of the Maldives. The President made this remark while speaking at the joint press statement delivered alongside the Prime Minister of Malaysia H.E Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib Bin Tun Abdul Razak.
The Malaysian Prime Minister and First Lady are currently on an official visit to the Maldives, on the invitation of President Yameen and First Lady.
Speaking at the press briefing, President Yameen shed light on the 4 agreements that were signed between the Maldives and Malaysia, covering key areas including education, health, culture and civil defense, aimed at further enhancing the existing relations between both countries.
During the press briefing the President thanked the Prime Minister for the invaluable contributions extended by Malaysia in the socio-economic development of the Maldives over the years, and expressed his hopes to see investors from Malaysia seize the available opportunities in the Maldives. He further stated that both countries agreed to set up an appropriate mechanism that will promote business, trade and investment cooperation as well as enhance collaboration between private sector operators.
Speaking at the joint press briefing, President Yameen stated that as youth development is a key priority area of his administration, discussions were held with the Malaysian administration of the need for youth exchanges, especially in the area of sports, and that both sides agreed to collaborate closely in empowering youth.
Additionally the President stated that over the years Maldives has benefited immensely from the excellent educational opportunities available in Malaysia, and stated that Malaysia’s contribution to the human resource development in the Maldives has been remarkable. Furthermore he pointed out that the MOU signed today in the area of higher education will further enhance higher education opportunities for Maldivians.
Speaking more at the press briefing President Yameen emphasized on working closely to discover potential win-win cooperation in the area of tourism and hospitality between both countries.
Moreover the President underlined the discussion on exchanging views on the critical issue of climate change and sustainable development and agreed to work closely to implement the commitments both countries have undertaken in Paris in 2015. The President also assured the Prime Minister of the firm commitment to exert the Maldives’ leadership on these issues as the Chair of AOSIS.
The President underscored the discussions held with the Malaysian Prime Minister on issues relating to terrorism, violent extremism and radicalization, stating that both the leaders unequivocally agreed to redouble joint efforts to combat the menace of terrorism that threatens the world.
Speaking at the press briefing the Prime Minister of Malaysia reiterated his commitment to strengthen the existing bilateral relations across all areas of mutual interest between the Maldives and Malaysia.
During the Prime Minister's two day visit, Maldives and Malaysia held bilateral discussions towards further enhancing existing ties, and development partnerships, between the two nations. A number of memoranda of understanding were also signed during the visit.
