Discussions have been held on exploring avenues to enhance mutually beneficial investment opportunities as well as the cordial ties between Maldives and Portugal.

On the sidelines of his ongoing visit to attend the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih met with the President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa where both leaders engaged in productive discussions.

During the meeting held at the UN Headquarters in New York City, both leaders discussed on collaboration in the area of blue economy, which both countries have keen interest in.

The Portuguese President was briefed on the situation surrounding the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic in the Maldives, and measures enforced by the government to successfully eradicate the virus. This includes a goal to vaccinate the entire population of the Maldives at the earliest.

President Solih noted that the government has lifted a number of restrictions in the country for tourists and travelers, with the declining number of infections being reported nationwide.

With this being said, President Marcelo revealed that 95 percent of the Portuguese population has received both doses of the Covid-19 vaccination, going on to congratulate the Maldivian government on winning the UNGA presidency.

The UNGA presidency represents the whole world in ongoing global efforts to rebuild economically and socially in the aftermath of the pandemic, said the Portuguese President.

Shedding light on climate change, the Portuguese President revealed that it goes far beyond theoretical facts, adding that both countries have felt consequences of climate change, as both are maritime countries.

The Portuguese President went on to extend an invitation to President Solih to undertake a state visit to Portugal and attend the Oceans Conference to be held next year in Lisbon, to be co-hosted by Portugal and Kenya.

With this being said, the Maldivian president wished the Oceans Conference every success and expressed hope that it will lead to creative solutions, while shedding light on the importance of eradicating plastic pollution and conserving the health of oceans.

Expressing keen interest to expand the existing economic relations and enhancing the Maldives-Portugal ties in the coming years, the pair also discussed tourism, renewable energy and digitalization which could see collaboration between both countries.

The Portuguese President revealed that Maldives may consider participating in the upcoming technology conference, Web Summit slated for this year.

Maldives and Portugal established diplomatic relations on 9 February 1995.