H.E. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and H.E. President of the Republic of Seychelles, Mr Wavel Ramkalawan, held official talks between the two countries on Monday. The two presidents discussed the existing bilateral relations between their countries and noted that this visit marks a historic milestone as it is the first visit by a Seychellois Head of State to the Maldives. President Solih also recalled his visit to the Seychelles in 2019 and described it as a stepping stone towards enhancing the two countries' strategic partnership.
President Solih and President Ramkalawan acknowledged that the Maldives and Seychelles had entered a new era of close cooperation and discussed ways to strengthen this cooperation in the coming months and years. The two leaders also discussed how to shape future ties between the two countries in sectors where they share mutual interests.
President Solih and President Ramkalawan also discussed boosting bilateral, regional, and international cooperation, highlighting cooperation in tourism, economy and trade, youth and sports, and air connectivity. They also discussed cooperation in the environment and climate change, regional and international collaboration, and security and counterterrorism.
Shedding light on the similarities between both countries, President Solih proposed a work experience exchange programme for tourism workers. He noted that this would allow individuals to gain new perspectives and enhance their skills.
In the fields of economy and commerce, President Solih noted that the Maldives is looking to expand its economic outlook and diversify its industries. He encouraged investments and invited investors to partner with Maldivian enterprises. President Solih also expressed his ambition to strengthen cooperation in training and development by extending an annual invitation to the Seychelles to participate in the Maldives National Defence Force's Coast Guard Basic Diving Course.
Highlighting the importance of the air connectivity agreement signed today, President Solih stated that it would significantly contribute to promoting economic and trade cooperation between the Maldives and Seychelles. He added that the Air Services Agreement would be another essential tool to help boost the economies of both countries.
President Solih and President Ramakalawan also discussed the importance of mitigating climate change and building resilience. They agreed to cooperate and combine efforts to ensure that partners support the operationalisation of the loss and damage fund as soon as possible. The speedy operationalisation of the fund would ensure that support can be provided to people facing the worst effects of climate change.
President Solih and President Ramkalawan also reaffirmed their commitment to working closely to counter terrorism, violent extremism, and radicalisation through innovative strategies and new approaches. They agreed to work together to ensure the safety and security of the Indian Ocean. In conclusion, President Solih and President Ramkalawan reiterated their commitment to strengthening the two countries' relationship. They also met briefly for restricted talks at the President's Office before the official talks.
