High Commissioners of three countries present credentials to pres

]The new High Commissioners of three countries presented their credentials to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih on Monday.

The new High Commissioners of New Zealand, Nigeria, and the Phillippines presented their credentials to the president during special ceremonies held at the President's Office.

The new High Commissioner of New Zealand is Michael Edward Appleton. Speaking with the High Commissioner, President Solih stated that the Maldives and New Zealand celebrated 47 years of bilateral relations last year, and that the Maldives regards New Zealand as a good ally and partner. The President further stated that the Maldives and New Zealand have a bilateral relationship based on shared principles and interests, particularly in international fora, and that one of the most important areas of concern for both countries is the fight against terrorism and violent extremism. Other topics of discussion include expanding access to higher education, both countries' current COVID-19 situation, peace and security, and high-level people-to-people engagement.

In his meeting with the new Nigerian High Commissioner Abioye Mohammed Bello, the president stated that the Maldives and Nigeria have had historical bilateral connections for 40 years and that the Maldivian government is determined to strengthen these bilateral ties based on shared principles.

The new Ambassador for the Phillippines is Alan L. Deniega. The President and Ambassador discussed topics of mutual interest during this meeting, including the current state of Covid in both countries, climate change and vulnerabilities, and people-to-people connections. The new Filipino Ambassador expressed gratitude for the Maldivian government's hospitality and assistance to the Pilipino population in the Maldives, and stated that he looks forward to working as the Maldives' non-resident Ambassador.