His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with The Right Honourable David Lammy MP, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom, during a courtesy call held in London as part of the President’s ongoing official visit to the United Kingdom. The meeting provided an important platform to reinforce the enduring partnership between the Maldives and the United Kingdom and explore expanded cooperation in priority areas that align with the Maldives’ national development goals.
During the discussion, both sides underscored their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and advancing mutual interests across various sectors. Particular emphasis was placed on enhancing collaboration in fisheries, a cornerstone of the Maldivian economy and one of the country’s most important export industries. President Dr Muizzu welcomed continued British engagement in promoting sustainable fisheries management and ensuring fair access to international markets for Maldivian fish products, especially those sourced through environmentally responsible methods such as pole-and-line fishing.
Climate change adaptation featured prominently in the meeting agenda, reflecting the Maldives’ vulnerability as a low-lying island nation. The President and Secretary of State exchanged views on strengthening technical cooperation and access to climate finance, with the aim of supporting local resilience, ecosystem protection, and community-based climate action. The United Kingdom’s leadership in global climate advocacy remains a key factor in shaping collaborative strategies for long-term environmental sustainability in the Maldives.
The two leaders also discussed the potential for further cooperation in the renewable energy sector. President Dr Muizzu emphasized the Maldives’ efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions. The expansion of solar power and investment in energy-efficient technologies remain national priorities, where British expertise and investment can play a vital role.
Education and scholarship opportunities were highlighted as another area of mutual interest. The President expressed appreciation for the long-standing educational ties between the two countries and acknowledged the importance of continuing UK scholarship programs for Maldivian students. These opportunities not only build human capital but also strengthen people-to-people links and promote deeper cultural understanding between the two nations.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to strengthening the Maldives–UK relationship, which has been in place since the establishment of diplomatic relations on July 26, 1965. Over nearly six decades, the partnership has evolved through shared values, strategic cooperation, and mutual respect, laying the foundation for continued collaboration in areas such as governance, climate action, trade, education, and tourism.
President Dr Muizzu’s engagement with Secretary Lammy reflects the Maldives’ active approach to international diplomacy and its intention to deepen strategic partnerships that support the country’s sustainable development objectives. As the United Kingdom remains one of the Maldives’ top tourism markets, fostering strong diplomatic relations not only benefits government-to-government collaboration but also strengthens the appeal of the Maldives as a trusted and forward-looking destination for global travelers.