As part of his ongoing visit to New Delhi, India in order to participate in this year’s edition of the Raisina Dialogue, Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs has held several important discussions with top officials across the globe.

One of the biggest highlights of the day was a courtesy call paid by ministerial colleagues to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. During the call, FM Shahid conveyed greetings from President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and extended felicitations to the PM for a “very successful” and insightful Raisina Dialogue.

Meeting with the External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, FM Shahid exchanged updates with him on the ongoing projects under the Maldives-India relationship.

During another meeting with the National Security Advisor of Afghanistan Hamdullah Mohib on Wednesday, the minister stated that both countries will benefit as countries of South Asia, by furthering the bilateral relationship.

Further, the minister met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Estonia Urmas Reinsalu where he congratulated him on Estonia’s membership of the United Nations Security Council. The pair also discussed climate change, connectivity and enhanced overall bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Maldives and Estonia.

Also on Wednesday, the minister congratulated the First Chief of Defence Staff of India, General Bipin Rawat, stating that defence cooperation between Maldives and India is a strong pillar of the relationship both countries have enjoyed over the years. FM Shahid also stressed that it is important for the security, peace and stability of the Indian Ocean.

Discussions regarding development following FM Shahid’s visit to Russia during 2019 and strengthening the relationship between Maldives and Russia were held with Foreign Minister of Russia Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday as well.

FM Shahid went on to congratulate newly appointed Foreign Secretary (designate) Harsh Vardhan Shringla on his appointment during a meeting.

Another meeting includes with his Hungarian counterpart, Péter Szijjártó. The pair discussed strengthening the 45-year old relationship between both countries.

While countless meetings have taken place on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue 2020, FM Shahid delivered his keynote speech on Wednesday evening.