Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and leaders of Singapore have discussed common challenges and mutual cooperation shared between both countries.

During a meeting held at the Istana on Monday, the Maldives President met President of Singapore Halimah Yacob and the country’s Prime Minister, Lee Hsien Loong on the last day of his state visit to Singapore upon the invitation of the country’s government.

Discussions were held on various areas including trade and commerce, security cooperation for sustained peace and prosperity, combating terrorism as well as environment and climate change.

Having expressed their mutual resolve to strengthen and diversify cooperation in the international fora, the leaders also reviewed the ongoing cooperation.

They had expressed interest in further consolidating bilateral relations that have thrived for over four decades.

Solih also expressed gratitude on behalf of the Maldives government for the generous announcement made by the government of Singapore to offer a two-year technical cooperation package in governance and sustainable development of the Maldives.

Further, Solih stated that his government welcomes Singapore’s decision to facilitate mutual study visits and the sharing of knowledge on areas of water and waste management, public housing and urban planning.

This, the President said will immensely contribute to the country’s efforts to strengthen human resources and governance.

The President’s Office revealed that Maldives “greatly” values this continued assistance from the Singaporean government.

In addition, both governments had given assurance to further the cooperation on security issues in the trans-boundary nature.

Also on Monday, Maldives President and Singaporean Prime Minister observed the signing ceremony of two Memorandums of Understanding (MoU).

The two are on an updated Air Services Agreement that will improve air connectivity, and the second one on cooperation between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Singapore to give further impetus to bilateral ties.

Following the signing ceremony, Solih had extended invitations to both President Yacob and Prime Minister Loong to visit Maldives at a mutually convenient date, which both dignitaries accepted.

While the First Couple are on a two-day state visit to the Southeast Asian nation, President Yacob hosted a state banquet in honor of the Maldivian First Couple and the delegation.

Addressing attendees of the banquet, Solih shed light on the fact that Maldivians have traveled to Singapore frequently over the years for educational and commercial purposes as well as healthcare.