Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel has expressed confidence that the relations between Maldives and Bhutan will further strengthen during the tenure of the new Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bhutan Rinchen Kuentsyl.

The newly appointed ambassador called on the state minister at the Foreign Ministry on Monday, after presenting his Letters of Credence to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Congratulating him on the commencement of his tenure, the state minister expressed confidence that the ties between the two countries will be further strengthened during his tenure.

Highlighting that Maldives values the traditionally close and friendly ties it has enjoyed with Bhutan over the years, the state minister expressed keen interest to expand collaboration between the two countries, particularly in areas of mutual interest.

The pair also agreed on the importance of people-to-people engagement in solidifying bilateral ties.

The meeting also saw Khaleel and Ambassador Kuentsyl exchanging views on working closely in the sectors of health, tourism, youth and sports development as well as climate change.

Ambassador Kuentsyl expressed gratitude to Khaleel for the warm welcome and expressed commitment to work with the Maldivian government to boost ties in both bilateral and multilateral spheres, for the good of the people of both countries.

The meeting was joined by Joint Secretary Fathimath Ghina and Desk Officer at the Foreign Ministry Khadeeja Aufiya.