Maldivian embassies to be established in 3 new countries

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has announced plans to establish Maldivian embassies in three additional countries and a consulate in an additional country.

Speaking during his presidential address to the Parliament this Thursday, Solih said that it was imperative that a small island nation such as Maldives cultivate amicable ties with any many countries as possible in order to build and sustain its diplomatic capital to survive in modern times.

“With this in mind, the Government is working on opening embassies in Washington DC, United States, South Africa and Russia. Furthermore, a Maldivian Consulate is due to be opened in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia,” announced Solih.

Maldives currently has embassies in India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, China, Japan, UAE, UK and Germany; and a consulate in Trivandrum, India.

During his address, Solih said the administration was holding discussions with countries frequented by Maldivians to sign consular agreements.

“Consular services available to Maldivians residing abroad, especially students, will be strengthened,” said Solih.

VISA ARRANGEMENTS WITH EUROPEAN COUNTRIES

President Solih also announced the administration was in the middle of discussions with European governments to facilitate smooth visa arrangements for Maldivians.

Maldivians currently need to travel to neighboring Sri Lanka or obtain services from temporary Germany-Schengen Visa clinics which are periodically set up in Maldives in order to obtain visa for travel to Europe.

Solih’s statement comes after Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid, recently announced plans to establish a permanent biometric clinic for Germany-Schengen Visa in Maldives.

Solih, during his address, stressed that Maldives had been a state of isolation from the international community when he assumed power.

“But the positive direction that the Government's foreign policy has taken since my assumption of office have been met with acceptance and renewed friendships from the international community,” said Solih.

He also highlighted on the submission of procedural perquisites to re-join the Commonwealth, and announced the administration planned on exploring avenues for reconciliation with other international organizations in order to fortify diplomatic ties.