President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has laid the foundation for an elevated chapter in the diplomatic ties between the Maldives and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This commitment was articulated during the official reception commemorating the 52nd Union Day of the UAE, where President Muizzu expressed the Maldivian government's dedication to fostering a new era of bilateral relations.
The prestigious event, hosted at Hotel Jen and attended by dignitaries including First Lady Sajidha Mohamed and Vice President Uz. Hussain Mohamed Latheef, served as a platform for acknowledging the UAE's remarkable journey since unification.
President Muizzu, in his address, lauded the UAE as one of the world's premier destinations, symbolizing progress and prosperity. Highlighting the longstanding relationship between the two nations, he underscored the UAE's recent commitment to further support the expansion of Velana International Airport, emphasizing the enduring partnership in development.
In a significant announcement, President Muizzu revealed plans to attend COP28 in Dubai, emphasizing its critical importance, particularly for Small Island Developing States like the Maldives. He stressed the imperative need to operationalize the Loss and Damage Fund, achieve ambitious outcomes in the global stocktake, and unite efforts to address the pressing challenges facing the planet.
Assuring full support to the UAE's presidency, President Muizzu expressed confidence that COP28 would yield concrete outcomes. This declaration solidifies the collaborative spirit between the Maldives and the UAE, marking a strategic alliance aimed at addressing global concerns and advancing shared goals.