Sat, 05 Jul 2025

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DHIVEHI

Maldives and UK hold Second Strategic Dialogue in Malé

30 May 2025

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Yumn Hassan

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Maldives and the United Kingdom held the Second Strategic Dialogue at the senior officials level in Malé on May 28, 2025, focusing on strengthening cooperation in trade, security, governance, education, and climate action.

The two sides reviewed progress since the first Dialogue in 2023, reaffirming their commitment to enhancing economic ties and exploring collaboration in areas such as fisheries, tourism, renewable energy, and financial services. Security discussions centred on regional stability, counterterrorism, and maritime cooperation, with the UK pledging continued technical support.

Talks also covered governance, judicial reform, and human rights, with the UK affirming support for democratic consolidation in the Maldives. In education, both parties discussed expanding scholarship opportunities and addressing visa-related challenges for Maldivian students in the UK.

Climate and environmental cooperation was highlighted through the Ocean Country Partnership Programme, with both countries agreeing to coordinate ahead of COP30 and acknowledging the Maldives’ role among Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

The dialogue concluded with agreement to hold the talks annually and continue building on the growing partnership.

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