Shahid meets Blinken in US; seeks scholarships, visa waiver

Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid met the Secretary of State of the United States Antony Blinken on Friday, marking a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

The meeting took place at a crucial juncture as both Maldives and the US establishes resident embassies in their respective capitals, underscoring the commitment to revitalise friendship and cooperation.

In a statement, the Maldivian foreign ministry said the discussions between Shahid and Blinken centred on a range of issues, including: 

"The Maldives and United States acknowledged the importance of upholding a rules-based international order and expressed their commitment to regional stability, maritime security, and promoting peace," the statement read.

"Minister Shahid reaffirmed the Maldives' dedication to maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific, while also expressing appreciation for the United States' engagement in the region."

Blinken congratulated the Maldives on the successful efforts to consolidate democracy. He further acknowledged Maldives’ leadership in climate diplomacy to ensure increased global commitment to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.

Shahid requested for increased higher education opportunities for Maldivians to study at American universities, highlighting the importance of academic exchanges, scholarships, and collaboration across various fields of study.

Shahid also emphasised the importance of waiving of visas for Maldivians traveling to the United States, aiming to promote people-to-people contact.

"Secretary Blinken acknowledged the importance of enhancing such contact and assured minister Shahid that the United States would explore possibilities to streamline visa procedures for Maldivian nationals. This would promote greater cultural exchange, tourism, and business ties, further strengthening the bonds between the two nations," the statement read.