Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid has stated that the Government of Japan played an instrumental and constructive role in the development journey of the Maldives.

Minister Shahid made the remarks at the Lunch Reception hosted by the Ambassador of Japan to Celebrate the Official Visit of His Excellency Takei Shunsuke, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan and to commemorate the 55th Anniversary of establishment of diplomatic relations between Maldives and Japan, on Tuesday.

The Minister in his remarks, highlighted the historic and friendly nature of the relationship between the two countries. He also emphasized on the significant advancements achieved in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

Speaking at the reception, Minister Shahid extended sincere congratulations on behalf of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the Government, and people of Maldives to His Majesty Emperor Naruhito, Emperor of Japan, His Excellency Kishida Fumio, the Prime Minister, and to the friendly people of Japan on the auspicious occasion of the 55th Anniversary of the establishment of Diplomatic relations between Maldives and Japan.

In closing, Minister Shahid thanked Foreign Minister of Japan, Hayashi Yoshimasa for his unwavering determination and commitment to strengthen the relations between Maldives and Japan, and thanked Ambassador Midori, for her tireless efforts in elevating the level of cooperation between the two countries.

Minister Shahid was joined at the reception by State Minister Ahmed Khlaeel, Foreign Secretary Ahmed Latheef and Ambassador at Large Ahmed Saleem and Senior Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.