Minister noted the close cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest
Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, attended a virtual event to commemorate the signing of the Agreement between the Government of Maldives and University of Milano-Bicocca to protect the coral reefs of the Maldives. On behalf of the Government of Maldives, the Agreement was signed by Her Excellency Zaha Waheed, Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture, and on behalf of Bicocca University, the Agreement was signed by Ms. Giovanna Iannantuoni, Rector of Bicocca University.
In his remarks, Minister Shahid noted the importance of the ocean and the coral reef ecosystems to the livelihoods and economic development of the Maldives and highlighted the importance of protecting these environments. Minister Shahid expressed gratitude to the Bicocca University for the initiative taken to protect the coral reefs of the Maldives and the investment the University has made to conduct quality scientific research and cooperation programmes in Faafu Atoll Magoodhoo.
Furthermore, Minister Shahid highlighted the initiatives taken by University of Milano – Bicocca in areas of marine research, capacity building, and renewable energy; and noted the positive impact of these initiatives on the local students. Minister Shahid expressed hope to see further collaborations with the Bicocca University and other renowned institutions of Italy in areas of global concern such as global sustainable development.
Concluding his remarks, Minister Shahid thanked the Government of Italy for the important role Italy played in the promotion of the Maldives as a tourism destination and for the strengthening of the Maldives – Italy relations in recent years. Minister Shahid noted the close cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest such as climate change, sustainable development, democracy and human rights. He further expressed hope that the Maldives – Italy partnership will further expand, consolidate and solidify in the coming years.
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