President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has expressed his desire to collaborate with the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) in the fight against terrorism and violence against women and girls. He made the statement during the courtesy call by the visiting Secretary-General of SAARC Esala Ruwan Weerakoon.
During the meeting held at the President's Office, President Solih stated that all SAARC member countries should work harder to ensure that the human rights of each and every individual are protected. He also stated that all member countries should collaborate to address the climate emergency.
Furthermore, President Solih praised the efforts of SAARC during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the critical role it continues to play in strengthening regional collaboration among member states. He also reaffirmed the commitment of the Maldives to SAARC cooperation.
During the meeting, Secretary-General Weerakoon expressed gratitude for the warm welcome. He also commended the vaccination programme in the Maldives, stating that the country serves as an example to others when it comes to vaccination.
Concluding the call, the president and the secretary-general expressed assurance in further cultivating the existing ties and working together to achieve mutually favourable outcomes.