Maldives-EU Partnership Dialogue: Discussions held on fish tariffs and visa leniency

The 'Partnership Dialogue' between the Maldives and the European Union (EU) has been held, with discussions covering a wide range of areas including fish tariffs and granting on-arrival visas for Maldivians traveling to EU countries.

This marks the first time since 2020, and the first time since the Maldives signed the 'Samoa Agreement' in July 2024, that official talks under the name 'Maldives-EU Partnership Dialogue' have been conducted.

The meeting took place last Monday at the Maldives Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

In a statement issued today, the Foreign Ministry described this as a significant milestone achieved in the relationship between the Maldives and the EU. The Ministry stated that during these discussions, ways to expand trade relations between the two and methods to facilitate easier entry of Maldivian fish products into EU countries were discussed.

According to the statement, they also exchanged views on tariff difficulties and discussed ongoing reform efforts to increase investments and advance the economy.

Additionally, the Foreign Ministry noted that discussions were held regarding the provision of on-arrival visas for Maldivians traveling to EU countries.

The Foreign Ministry stated that this high-level meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen ties in key priority areas for both the EU and the Maldives. These include strengthening democracy, human rights, climate change, maritime security, and regional safety, as well as trade, fisheries, and enhancing people-to-people connections.

Both the EU and the Maldives emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles and fundamental rights during the meeting. This includes freedom of expression and providing necessary opportunities for a civil society.

Furthermore, both parties discussed changes occurring in the political, economic, and social sectors of the Maldives and the EU. The Ministry stated that views were exchanged particularly regarding infrastructure development, strengthening the financial system, anti-corruption efforts, digital transformation, the education sector, and economic diversification.

During the meeting, the Maldivian government expressed gratitude for the EU's continued support in strengthening the Maldivian democratic system. The EU also provided assurance that it will remain committed to providing assistance to the Maldives in the future.

In these talks, with security considerations as a core foundation, both parties discussed practical steps that could be taken to further strengthen and expand security cooperation in the coming years.

The Ministry noted that the discussions concluded with a decision to work towards further strengthening the relationship based on shared principles and mutual priorities. Discussions were also held regarding holding the second meeting in Brussels, Belgium, next year.

This first "Partnership Dialogue" between the Maldives and the EU was co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Fathimath Inaya and Paola Pampaloni, Deputy Managing Director for Asia and the Pacific at the European External Action Service.