Maldives and EU announce that the inaugural Maldives-EU Partnership Dialogue held in Male' follows the Maldives' accession to the Samoa Agreement
During the meeting, extensive discussions were held on strengthening cooperation in democratic principles, human rights, climate change, maritime security, and trade. While the Maldives sought facilitated access for its fish products to European markets and requested Schengen visa concessions, the EU committed 4 million euros in aid for environmental protection. Additionally, it was decided that the second Partnership Dialogue between the two parties will be held in Brussels in 2027.
The flag of the European Union (EU) and the national flag of the Maldives. | iStock | iStock
The Brussels Times has reported that the inaugural Maldives-EU Partnership Dialogue was convened following the administration of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu joining the Samoa Agreement, a treaty previously scrutinized for containing provisions perceived to conflict with Islamic principles.
The inaugural "Maldives – EU Partnership Dialogue" between the Republic of Maldives and the European Union was held in Male' on February 9, 2026.
Citing the European External Action Service (EEAS), a joint statement released by both parties on Monday noted that the discussions built upon the senior officials' meetings held annually since 2020. This dialogue follows the Maldives' signing of the "Samoa Agreement" on July 1, 2024, which outlines the framework for the European Union's relations with African, Caribbean, and Pacific nations.
According to the statement, the meeting featured extensive discussions on democratic governance, human rights, climate action, maritime security, and regional safety. Furthermore, both parties deliberated on trade, fisheries, and the strengthening of people-to-people ties between the two nations.
Both parties underscored the significance of democratic principles and fundamental rights. This includes the importance of safeguarding freedom of expression and fostering an enabling environment for civil society organizations.
Furthermore, both parties exchanged views on recent political, economic, and social developments. Discussions focused on infrastructure development, strengthening the financial system, anti-corruption efforts, digital transformation, education, and economic diversification. The Maldives expressed its gratitude for the European Union's continued support in strengthening the country's democratic framework. This includes the recommendations provided by the EU Election Observation Follow-up Mission, which visited the Maldives in November 2024.
In the statement, the EU urged the Maldives to fully honor its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), emphasizing cooperation in trade, security, and climate action.
The Maldives expressed its appreciation for the European Union's support in regional initiatives, such as the "CRIMARIO" program, which focuses on providing training and ensuring maritime security. The statement described the program as a vital initiative that assists in the protection of critical maritime routes.
During these discussions, both parties identified avenues to further strengthen and expand security cooperation in the coming years.
The statement noted that discussions were held regarding the expansion of bilateral trade between the Maldives and the European Union, specifically focusing on securing easier access for Maldivian fish products to the EU market. Furthermore, deliberations touched upon addressing tariff barriers and implementing the necessary reforms to attract further investment and achieve long-term economic growth.
Climate resilience and the preservation of biodiversity were also key priorities on the meeting's agenda. This included an agreement to secure funding for the "Community-Based Mangrove Protection and Rehabilitation in the Maldives" project, proposed under the Maldives Annual Action Program 2025.
According to the statement, the agreement will provide an additional €4 million to support efforts to protect the Maldives' mangrove ecosystems.
The European Union has proposed providing the Maldives with earth observation data gathered through its "Copernicus" satellite system. Simultaneously, the Maldives has requested to be included among the countries exempt from Schengen visa requirements, which would allow Maldivian citizens to travel to most European nations visa-free.
During these discussions, both parties addressed the evolving dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region and reaffirmed their commitment to upholding international law and principles, with the United Nations at the forefront. The statement further noted that deliberations were held regarding the hosting of the second "Maldives–EU Partnership Dialogue" in Brussels in 2027.
The meeting was co-chaired by the Foreign Secretary of the Maldives, Fathimath Inaya, and the Deputy Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the European External Action Service, Paola Pampaloni.
