President Abdullah Yameen has stated that during the past year, the profile and respect for Maldives in the international platform has risen.

He made the statement in the Presidential Address given in the opening session of the Parliament. In his Address, President Yameen said that last year was a successful one for the nation, especially for the diplomatic front. He said the profile and respect for the nation had risen in the past year and that national interests had been protected as well.

In his address, he highlighted on the Government’s decision to withdraw from the Commonwealth was the toughest decision in the nation’s history, with regards to foreign policy.

He added that last year, Maldives took an active role in the UN and in developing bilateral ties with other nations. President Yameen said that in the future, foreign policy will be focused on developing better relationships with nations that supported Maldives, the nation’s integrity and assisted in development efforts. He also pledged to ease the visa processes for Maldivians travelling abroad.

President Yameen also pledged to further expand the diplomatic and consular services granted to Maldivian living abroad, especially Maldivian students.

Last year was a remarkable year on the foreign relations platform, with Maldives having cut ties with the Commonwealth and Iran. Additionally, longtime ally India had expressed discontent over growing close ties with China and the large scale investments coming in from China.

Last year was also noted for the increase in criticism from leading organization over the uptake in money laundering cases associated with the Maldives. They say that actions by the Government negatively impacted on the peace and stability of the Indian Ocean region.