A high-level delegation of political leaders and civil society representatives from Europe and South Asia is visiting the Maldives from 11–12 August 2025 to strengthen dialogue and cooperation between the two regions.

Organised by the South Asia Regional Office of the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF), the visit forms part of a broader South Asia study tour covering India, Bangladesh, and Bhutan.

According to Dr. Carsten Klein, FNF South Asia’s Regional Director, the aim is to deepen connections particularly between Germany and South Asia and highlight opportunities for mutual learning.

The delegation includes prominent German political figures such as Ms. Sandra Weeser, Member of the Bundestag; Dr. Marcus Faber, Chairperson of the Bundestag Defence Committee; and Dr. Jürgen Martens, President of the Deutsche Gruppe der Liberal International, along with other leaders from politics, business, and civil society.

While in Malé, the group's itinerary include meeting Mayor of Malé, the Chairperson of the Maldivian Democratic Party, the Deputy Speaker of the People’s Majlis, and members of the Maldives-German Friendship Group.

Their discussions will focus on democratic reforms, legislative transparency, climate change adaptation, and enhancing South Asia–Europe political collaboration.

The itinerary also includes a guided tour of the Maldivian Parliament.

The Maldives, a strategically located Indian Ocean nation, plays a key role in regional maritime security and Indo-Pacific stability.

In addition to its global reputation as a tourist destination, it is an important partner in fisheries, climate action, and sustainable ocean governance.

The FNF South Asia’s study visits aim to promote liberal-democratic values, foster economic cooperation, and strengthen political engagement between South Asia and Europe.

With South Asia home to nearly two billion people, the region holds growing political and economic significance for Europe.