People’s Majlis has begun debating on the Foreign Service Bill which will establish foreign service as a separate government entity.

South-Henveiru constituency MP Hussain Shaheem presented the government proposed bill at Monday’s parliament sitting.

Noting that the bill comprises of 71 clauses, MP Shaheem said its purpose is to strengthen the country’s foreign services.

The Foreign Service Bill was compiled as part of the government’s efforts to launch foreign services as a separate government service, and entails the establishment of a separate institute as well .

While it will introduce the Foreign Service Act, it was included in the government's Strategic Action Plan (SAP) which outlines the administration’s developmental targets and priorities from 2019 – 2023.

The government said that the establishing Foreign Services as a separate government service was to offer excellence and professionalism in the service as well as to ensure those working in the sector are capable and trained individuals by providing specialized skill development training.

The bill also aims to promote the country’s interests in the international arena as well as ensuring the continuity of bilateral relations and promoting regional security.

Maldives first launched a professional Foreign Service in 1990.