Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen has thanked the United States government for its continuous support and assistance to the Maldives, at the reception held to mark the 236th Independence Day of the US.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice President noted that the US has always been a “true partner” of the Maldives in offering its guidance in resolving emerging complex issues. He also expressed confidence that the US government would continue to extend assistance towards sustaining the development of the Maldives, as well as consolidating the Maldives’ democracy and enhancing the social, economic and political dimensions of governance in the country.

Underlining the many areas of partnership between the two countries, the Vice President especially noted the Maldives-USA defense cooperation, which has been vital in enhancing the national defense capabilities of the Maldives.

Furthermore, highlighting that this November would mark the 47th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the Vice President expressed his appreciation to the Ambassador of the United States to the Maldives Patricia Butenis, for the collaboration she had extended to the Maldives during her tenure as ambassador.