Maldives optimistic about ‘warm ties’ with Singapore

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and first lady Fazna Ahmed were welcomed to Singapore in style at the Istana, the official residence of the president of Singapore on Sunday.

Solih met with President of Singapore Halima Yacob and Singaporean Prime minister Lee Hsein Loong at the Istana.

The leaders reviewed ongoing cooperation and expressed mutual interest in further consolidating bilateral ties that they said had thrived over the last four decades. 

Solih expressed his gratitude for Singapore’s offer to the Maldives of a two-year technical cooperation package in governance and sustainable development. 

Two MoUs were signed between the two governments.

One agreement is aimed at improving air connectivity, establishing greater commercial links and facilitating social liaison between the two countries.

The second is designed to enhance cooperation between the two countries’ foreign ministries.  

A state luncheon was hosted by the Singaporean president in honour of Solih, the first lady and the Maldivian delegation. 

While addressing the gathering at the luncheon, Solih talked about the many common challenges faced by Singapore and the Maldives. 

He placed emphasis on the importance of bilateral ties in trade, commerce and security cooperation to combat terrorism, fight climate change and champion the cause of small islands. 

Solih stated that he is optimistic that the warm ties of friendship that have existed between the Maldives and Singapore will continue to flourish.

Solih and the first lady also met with the Maldivian community residing in Singapore. 

During a meeting with Maldivian expats, he commended several talented Maldivians who work in technical fields in Singapore and of whom he said the country is proud.

He told the Maldivian community that since the very first day of the current administration, the government has been working to improve relations with friendly nations abroad.

“We will safeguard the independence and sovereignty of the nation in establishing deeper ties with foreign countries,” Solih said.

In keeping with that aim, Solih said the current administration is working tirelessly to rejoin the Commonwealth. 

Before concluding the state visit, Solih extended an open invitation to the Singaporean president to pay a state visit to the Maldives in the near future.