After initially keeping Sergio's visit under wraps, government confirms his presence in the Maldives following inquiries from journalists
The President stated that in addition to meeting with him on Thursday, the official will also hold discussions with several cabinet ministers. He further emphasized that the Maldives should extend such opportunities whenever requested by a partner nation.
U.S. President Donald Trump and his envoy, Sergio Gor. | Getty Images | getty images
It has emerged that the Maldivian government is maintaining a high level of secrecy regarding the ongoing visit of Sergio Gor, a special envoy of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Sergio serves as the United States Special Representative for South and Central Asia. As part of his regional tour, his itinerary included official visits to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Having concluded his visit to Sri Lanka, he is currently in the Maldives. However, it has emerged that the Maldivian government has kept the details of this visit strictly confidential.
However, Sergio's visit to the Maldives was only revealed through a statement issued by the U.S. State Department. Since then, the Maldivian government has maintained silence on the matter.
The government had not previously disclosed his arrival in the Maldives or his meetings with senior government officials. Typically, the Maldivian government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announce visits by high-ranking foreign dignitaries.
When questioned about Sergio’s visit during a press conference on Monday, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu initially withheld any information regarding the matter. However, following repeated inquiries, the President confirmed that Sergio is currently in the Maldives.
President Muizzu further stated that a request has been made for meetings with senior government officials. He noted that, in addition to meeting with the President himself on Thursday, the individual is also scheduled to meet with several cabinet ministers. The President added that when a country with established diplomatic ties to the Maldives makes such a request, the Maldives should facilitate that opportunity.
The visit of Donald Trump’s special envoy, Sergio to the Maldives comes at a time of heightened conflict involving the United States and Israel against Iran. It also coincides with reports that the U.S. has requested permission to station or land military aircraft at several Maldivian airports.
