His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with the Honourable Alex Sobel, Member of Parliament for Leeds Central and Headingley, along with senior officials from various sectors in the City of Leeds, as part of his official visit to the United Kingdom. The high-level discussion focused on deepening cooperation between the Maldives and the City of Leeds across key sectors, including healthcare, food security, climate resilience, digital transformation, and education.
During the meeting, President Dr Muizzu introduced several key policy initiatives of his administration, particularly in healthcare. Emphasizing the importance of strengthening medical access across the Maldives’ dispersed islands, the President discussed how Leeds’ health technology advancements could support the country’s growing interest in telemedicine and remote healthcare services.
Food security was another topic of shared interest. The President highlighted national efforts to increase local food production and reduce reliance on imports. In response, officials from Leeds shared insights into their food sustainability programmes and explored areas for knowledge exchange and support.
President Dr Muizzu also presented his administration’s goal of expanding the Maldives’ digital economy to represent 15% of the national GDP by 2030. He welcomed opportunities for collaboration on artificial intelligence, public sector digitalization, and smart infrastructure. The meeting also included discussions on the Maldives’ “model city” initiative, with the President underlining the need for international partnerships and investment to support these transformative urban development projects.
As part of his government’s strong commitment to climate action, President Dr Muizzu highlighted the country’s latest solar energy initiatives launched in March, its ongoing efforts to safeguard coral reef ecosystems, and the importance of upgrading weather monitoring and early warning systems. He also explored the possibility of working with Leeds on clean energy solutions and sustainable urban planning, including low-emission public transport models for Malé City.
Education was another key area discussed. The President expressed interest in expanding opportunities for Maldivian students to study at universities in Leeds, recognizing the city’s reputation as a centre of academic excellence and innovation.
Hon. Alex Sobel and Leeds officials shared details of the city’s ongoing international partnerships, expressing readiness to support the Maldives in areas such as green energy transition, smart transportation, and the digital transformation of public services.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation through inclusive, practical, and forward-looking initiatives that align with global sustainability and development goals.
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