The Maldives and Seychelles have successfully exchanged four significant agreements, marking a notable advancement in bilateral relations between the two nations. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and President Wavel Ramkalawan of Seychelles presided over the formal ceremony for exchanging these agreements.
Among the agreements is the Short-Stay Visa Waiver Agreement, which was signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid and Seychelles’ Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Sylvestre Radegonde. This agreement will alleviate current travel restrictions for citizens of both countries, enabling them to travel visa-free for a period of 30 days. In addition, the ministers also signed the agreement on air services, which will facilitate international air travel, promote economic growth, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of air services between the Maldives and Seychelles.
Furthermore, Minister Shahid and Minister Radegonde signed the Protocol on Cooperation to Combat Transnational Organized Crime and Other Maritime Security and Safety Threats. The primary objective of this protocol is to strengthen and consolidate cooperation between both parties in areas such as search and rescue operations, combating piracy, and addressing other maritime security threats. The protocol will significantly enhance endeavors to ensure maritime safety and security.
Moreover, Minister of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment Ahmed Mahloof and Minister Radegonde signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Youth Development Cooperation. This MoU aims to foster the exchange of knowledge, experience, and resources between the Maldives and Seychelles, promoting long-term cooperation in various domains, including capacity building and youth exchange programs.
