10 June 2013, Male'; The first Ambassador of Maldives to the Philippines, His Excellency Hussain Shihab presented his Letter of Credence as Non-Resident Ambassador, to the President of the Philippines, His Excellency Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino III today. The ceremony was held at the official residence of the President of the Philippines "the Malacañan Palace".
During the ceremony, President Aquino conveyed his greetings to the President and the people of the Republic of Maldives, and discussed ways of strengthening the close bilateral ties between the two countries.
During the discussions, Ambassador Shihab conveyed greetings from the President and people of the Maldives, to the President and the people of Philippines and discussed ways of further strengthening the close relations and expanding economic activities between the two countries. High Commissioner Shihab also noted that there are a number of Philippine expatriates working in the tourism industry of the Maldives providing valuable contributions to the sector.
After the presentation, President Aquino welcomed the twelve Ambassadors of the twelve countries who presented credentials today. A reception was also hosted by the President in honor of the new Ambassadors.
Ambassador Shihab is scheduled to meet with the Secretary for Foreign Affairs of the Philippines tomorrow and will be participating in the Independence Day celebrations to be hosted by the Philippines President on 12 June 2013.
ENDS.