Foreign Minister Shahid meets the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives, Abdulla Shahid has met with the First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Serbia, His Excellency Ivica Dačić, this morning.
During the meeting, the Ministers had constructive discussions on enhancing the existing bilateral relations in a multitude of areas, such as education cooporation, youth development, health, and tourism. In this regard, Serbia informed that they are ready to receive 20 to 25 young sportspersons between the ages 12 to 18 from the Maldives to train them in volleyball, football and handball. This initiative is expected to be realised by mid 2023. Additionally, the Serbian Government is also willing to increase the scholarships they offer to Maldivian students.
Minister Shahid also raised the possibility of establishing a visa waiver agreement between the Maldives and Serbia. Minister noted that such an agreement would increase people to people ties, promote tourism and add to the bilateral portfolio between Maldives and Serbia. This request will be taken into consideration by the Government of Serbia.
The meeting was followed by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on bilateral political consultation. The MoU aims to deepen Maldives’ and Serbia’s political engagement by having periodic consultations to enhance cooperation on areas of mutual interest.
Minister Shahid is currently on an official visit to Belgrade on the invitation of his counterpart, Minister Dačić.