Maldives will champion “democracy, human rights and climate change”, the “three main pillars” of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s foreign policy, reveals Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid.

In his message to the citizens of Maldives on the commemoration of the New Year, Minister Shahid stated that the Ministry will increase engagement in international mediums and strengthen bonds with traditional partners.

The Ministry will also strive to make new friends based on these three guiding principles, stated the Minister.

Highlighting that this is a time “filled with hope”, Minister Shahid further stated that the Ministry will reinforce its ability to offer more services to the Maldivians living abroad.

Paving efficient ways for easy livelihoods for those living abroad is one of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s campaign pledges.

While Maldivians celebrated the “dawn of a new era” in 2018 which was filled with hope and optimism, Shahid highlighted that the Minister will do “its best” to fulfill those expectations in 2019 as well.

Minister Shahid went on to state that the Ministry will continue to bolster its resilience, as well as strengthen its “preparedness to respond to consider emergencies”.

While Foreign Ministers of other administrations used to send New Years felicitations through written cards every year to their counterparts, this is the first time a Maldivian foreign Minister had chosen to post an e-card through social media.

“We wish you and your loved ones, happiness, prosperity and good health for the new year ahead,” Minister Shahid.