The newly appointed United Nations Resident Coordinator for the Maldives, Hao Zhang, formally presented his credentials to President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during a ceremony held at the President’s Office earlier today.

Coordinator Zhang was ceremonially escorted from Republic Square to the President’s Office in a traditional Haiykolhu cultural procession, accompanied by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Drum and Trumpet Band, highlighting the significance of the occasion.

Following the official presentation, President Dr. Muizzu extended a warm welcome to Coordinator Zhang and reaffirmed the Maldives’ strong partnership with the United Nations.

He acknowledged the UN’s vital role in advancing national priorities, particularly in the areas of health, education, and human development.

The President also emphasized the importance of continued UN collaboration in achieving the country's Vision 2040 goal of becoming a fully developed nation.

In particular, he expressed interest in working closely with the UN to implement the newly ratified generational ban on tobacco, as well as initiatives promoting mental health and overall wellbeing.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ membership in the United Nations, a milestone reflecting decades of shared commitment to peace, progress, and international cooperation.