Discussions have been held on boosting cooperation in the tourism sector, between the Maldives and Turkey.

Following a ceremony held at the President’s Office where the Ambassador-designate of Turkey to the Maldives, Rakibe Demet Şekercioğlu presented her credentials to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, discussions were held on an extensive array of topics.

Some of the topics discussed include trade and commerce, security and counter-terrorism, as well as education and human resource development.

As Maldives and Turkey this year, marks the 42nd anniversary since diplomatic relations were established between the two countries on 28 May 1979, President Solih revealed that the Maldives accords high priority to its relations with the government of Turkey.

With this being said, he expressed gratitude for the continued cooperation and support extended to the island nation by the government of Turkey.

Going on to shed light on Maldives’ interest in boosting trade and investment between the two countries, the Maldivian president invited companies in Turkey to explore investment opportunities in the island nation.

President Solih also touched down on strengthening cooperation in the tourism sector, with the Turkish ambassador-designate speaking on ways to ease the difficulties surfacing for Turkish companies active in the Maldives.

Stressing on the increasing concerns revolving around the rise of extremism, radicalism, and terrorism, President Solih pushed the international community to continue working together to address these threats, assuring that the Maldives remains committed to continue collaborating with Turkey and other friendly nations to combat terrorism, piracy, and other organized crime threats.

Ambassador Şekercioğlu reiterated this sentiment.

Discussions were also held on increasing training and higher education opportunities for Maldivians through Turkish academic institutions and the Maldivian president expressed gratitude to the government of Turkey for its continued support in training government officials and Maldivian diplomats.

The pair expressed hope to see renewed and enhanced relations between both countries, during Ambassador Şekercioğlu’s tenure.