United Kingdom’s decision to open an embassy in Malé is an indication of the country’s commitment to its relationship with Maldives, says Ambassador James Dauris.

The British ambassador called on Vice President Faisal Naseem on Tuesday.

Noting that it was a pleasure to meet with VP Naseem, Dauris said that the meeting was “an opportunity to welcome Maldives’ decision to appoint an ambassador in London.”

While UK’s Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt earlier this month announced the decision to open an embassy in Maldives, Ambassador Dauris said that this is “an indication of [UK’s] confidence in, commitment to and ambition for [Maldives, UK] relationship.”

The ambassador also commended the current administration “for its ambitious 100 working days program and the start of its active implementation seen in the country during the short time since coming into office,” and welcomed its decision to rejoin the Commonwealth.

According to the President’s Office, VP Naseem expressed gratitude for UK’s continuous support to the Maldives, during the meeting.

He also welcomed UK’s decision to open an embassy in Maldives, and thanked UK for the mobile student visa facilitation service it has been operating in Male’ for the last six years.

Both parties also discussed on the existing “strong” relations between both countries, and spoke of working together to enhance collaboration in areas that are of mutual benefit to both countries; especially in the areas of tourism and education.

VP Naseem and Ambassador Dauris also discussed ways to further strengthen the close ties between Maldives and the United Kingdom.