Today, the Minister of Foreign, Moosa Zameer held a significant meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

The discussions focused on strengthening the bilateral relationship between the Maldives and the United States, with key topics including defence and security cooperation, democratic promotion, economic growth, and climate change adaptation.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to exploring new avenues to enhance their partnership.

They underscored the importance of maintaining a rules-based international order, ensuring regional stability, and promoting maritime security and peace. Secretary Blinken congratulated the Maldives on its successful Presidential and Parliamentary elections and acknowledged the country's leadership in international efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.

During the meeting, Minister Zameer emphasized the value of educational opportunities offered by the United States and suggested that easier visa facilitation for Maldivians would boost people-to-people contact, fostering cultural exchange, tourism, and business ties.

Minister Zameer's official visit to the U.S. commenced on June 23, accompanied by a delegation that included the Maldives Ambassador to the United States, Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed, and other senior officials.

During his trip, he also met with USAID Administrator Samantha Power to discuss economic advancements, environmental protection, and strengthening Maldivian associations with USAID support.

While in Washington D.C., Minister Zameer is scheduled to participate in an interactive discussion at the Council of Foreign Relations and engage with the Maldivian community residing there.

His itinerary includes a visit to New York, where he will meet with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and UN Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs Li Junhua.

Additionally, he plans to meet with tour operators and travel advisors in New York and will convene with the Maldivian community before concluding his visit on June 27.