Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Shahid has met with a number of European Union officials during his official visit to Brussels, Belgium.

At a meeting held at the European Commission with EU Commissioner for Trade, Cecilia Malmstrom on Wednesday, both FM Shahid and Commissioner Malmstrom had explored ways to expand trade relations between Maldives and the European Union.

Further, FM Shahid discussed on the need for greater access to “the most environment-friendly tuna around”, Maldivian tuna at the European Market with the EU Commissioner to which she agreed.

FM Shahid also held discussions with Deputy Managing Director, Asia and Pacific Department, European External Action Service (EEAS), Paola Pampaloni at the EEAS premises on Wednesday afternoon.

During the meeting, both parties had fruitful discussions on enhancing cooperation between Maldives and EU on various sectors including good governance, climate change, rule of law, human rights and economic development among many others.

In addition, FM Shahid also met Marja Rislakki, the Permanent Representative of Finland and congratulated Finland’s presidency at the EU Council, having gone on to state that both Maldives and Finland have shared perspectives on the fight against climate change and to promote human rights and good governance.

FM Shahid discussed enhancing cooperation on counter-terrorism issues and challenges faced by Maldives with EU Counter-Terrorism Coordinator Gilles de Kerchove on Thursday. Kerchove is to visit Maldives "soon" to meet with key government interlocutors.

Also on Thursday, FM Shahid met Members of the European Parliament including Dr. Charles Tannock and David McAllister, and thanked them for their "strong support for democracy in Maldives."