President of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has concluded his first visit to the Maldives in his capacity as PGA.

Upon the invitation of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, PGA Shahid arrived in the Maldives on October 6.

He was received at the Velana International Airport (VIA) by Minister of Tourism Dr. Abdulla Mausoom, Chief of Staff at the President’s Office Ali Zahir, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel and Foreign Secretary Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed.

The PGA departed Maldives late Saturday, and was seen off by Chief of Staff Zahir.

During his visit, PGA Shahid called on President Solih first thing upon his arrival, where he assured the president that he remains committed to progress the United Nations under the “Presidency of Hope” and “Five Rays of Hope”, inspired by the Maldives.

He went on to note that he will remain dedicated to promote the priorities of the Maldives, on the global stage during his UNGA tenure. President Solih expressed hope that the UN will flourish under Shahid’s presidency, and encouraged him to make full use of this opportunity to further enhance the foreign interests of the Maldivian government.

Both leaders engaged in discussions revolving around important global and local issues, including the safeguarding of human rights, climate change and advocacy for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in the international arena.

During the visit, the UNGA President also signed the Visitor’s Book at the President’s Office.

Then, the leaders held a joint press conference, during which Shahid said that Maldivians epitomize what the UN stands for; equality for all.

PGA Shahid was conferred the Order of Distinguished Rule of Izzudheen, “Nishan Izzuddeen Izzathuge Verikan”, during the National Day Function held at the Republic Square on Wednesday.

PGA Shahid was conferred the high-ranking honor due to his exemplary foreign policies and commendable work to promote the voice of Maldives in the international community. Further, the president regard PGA Shahid’s election as a great honor and believes it is a sign of the international community’s acceptance of his foreign services.

Order of “Nishan Izzuddeen” is among the highest-ranking honors conferred by the State and celebrates individual national and international services.

In honor of PGA Shahid, the First Couple also hosted an official luncheon.

During his visit, the PGA also attended the Maldives’ second match played in the ongoing “Ooredoo SAFF Championship 2021”, against Bangladesh.

The Maldives foreign minister’s spouse, Aishath Suiza called on First Lady Fazna Ahmed during the visit as well, where the pair engaged in discussions revolving around the role of women in national progress.