Ishigami Rumiko, the newly appointed Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, officially presented her Letters of Credence to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu at a ceremony held at the President’s Office.

Ambassador Ishigami was escorted from Republic Square in a traditional Maldivian “Haiykolhu” cultural procession, accompanied by the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) Drum and Trumpet Band.

Upon her arrival, President Dr. Muizzu formally accepted her credentials, congratulating her on her appointment and extending a warm welcome.

Following the ceremony, President Dr. Muizzu and Ambassador Ishigami held discussions on key areas of collaboration between Malé and Tokyo, focusing on disaster management assistance, renewable energy, and economic cooperation. 

Both reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic and developmental ties between the two nations.

The President expressed his gratitude for Japan’s continued support in various developmental projects, including infrastructure, environmental protection, and humanitarian aid. 

He also acknowledged Japan’s role as one of the Maldives’ largest bilateral development partners since the mid-1980s, providing assistance in sectors such as sustainable fisheries, human resource development, and post-tsunami reconstruction.

Ambassador Ishigami brings extensive diplomatic experience to her new role, having served in Japan’s foreign service since 1985. 

Prior to her Maldives appointment, she held the position of Consul-General of Japan in Hagatna, Guam. 

Japan and the Maldives formally established diplomatic relations on November 14, 1967, fostering a strong partnership in trade, commerce, and people-to-people exchanges. 

Over the decades, the two countries have worked closely in key developmental areas, ensuring continued mutual growth and cooperation.