Inaya becomes Maldives’ first female foreign secretary

Fathimath Inaya has been appointed as the Maldivian foreign secretary – marking the first time for a woman to be appointed to the post in the country’s history.

Inaya was presented with her letter of appointment by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu in a ceremony held at the President’s Office on Tuesday morning.

She was appointed as foreign secretary at state minister-level.

In the statement announcing Inaya’s appointment, the President’s Office said that the Maldivian administration was highly committed the empowerment of women and gender equity.

Inaya commenced her diplomatic career in 1996, and has served at various positions in the Foreign Ministry, including deputy minister, director for foreign relations, joint secretary in charge of bilateral relations, and assistant director for SAARC.

She holds a Masters in International Studies from the University of Sydney, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Development Studies and Asian Studies from the Flinders University of Australia.