H.E. David Jessup, the High Commissioner of the Commonwealth of Australia to the Republic of Maldives, paid a courtesy call on Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef on Wednesday. The meeting was held at the President’s Office this afternoon.

High Commissioner Jessup expressed his profound honour to have participated in the presidential inauguration ceremony held earlier this month. During the courtesy call, Vice President Hussain and High Commissioner engaged in a discussion about the enduring relationship between Australia and the Maldives.

The High Commissioner praised the 'Hafuthaa 14' roadmap by the new administration, through which the government underscored the prioritisation of pivotal development initiatives. The Vice President and the High Commissioner had an in-depth discussion on areas of mutual cooperation between the two countries. These areas included tourism, mental health, human capital development, education, multilateral and international cooperation, maritime safety, security and cooperation, as well as the pressing issue of climate change.

The High Commissioner underscored the priority given to enhancing relations with the Maldives, asserting that the recent establishment of the Australian High Commission in the Maldives is a testament to this commitment. The High Commissioner conveyed his commitment to nurturing a robust partnership with the Maldives, expressing dedication to promoting principles of sovereignty, prosperity, and peace while maintaining respect for international norms.

The meeting ended with the Vice President and the High Commissioner reiterating their commitment to strengthening friendship and partnership between their respective countries. The Maldives and Australia established diplomatic relations in 1974.