The Maldives government is seeking assistance from the Russian Federation in overcoming the challenges faced by the archipelago due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Maldivian Foreign Minister, Abdulla Shahid made the request during a telephone conversation with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov on Monday afternoon.
During the phone call, the two Ministers discussed the challenges faced due to the COVID-19 pandemic and briefed on the measures taken by the respective governments to contain the spread of the virus and to deal with the unprecedented global health emergency.
Minister Shahid and Minister Lavrov also discussed ways to overcome the economic and financial consequences of the virus and Minister Shahid requested Russia’s assistance in addressing these challenges.
Both Ministers further stressed the need for joint efforts in responding to COVID-19 and reaffirmed their commitment to continued cooperation and collaboration in advancing interests on areas of mutual concern.
Maldives is among the countries whose economies are expected to be worst-hit as a result of the pandemic. An island nation with tourism as its main source of income, the Maldives is already facing several economic challenges.
