President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu Meets with New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister Winston Peters at UNGA 79

News

President His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu held a key bilateral meeting with His Excellency Winston Peters, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Racing of New Zealand, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. The discussion focused on strengthening ties and exploring new opportunities for collaboration between the Maldives and New Zealand.

During the meeting, the leaders discussed avenues for bilateral cooperation, particularly in people-to-people exchanges, trade and investment, and taking advantage of the Maldives’ strategic geographical location. Both leaders expressed their commitment to deepening these connections to achieve mutual economic and social benefits.

They also addressed pressing multilateral issues, emphasizing the urgent need to tackle climate change and its far-reaching impacts. The leaders called for sustainable solutions to environmental challenges, highlighting the shared vulnerabilities of small island nations and the need for international cooperation.

The upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, scheduled for October, was recognized as a crucial opportunity for both nations to collaborate further on global challenges.

President Muizzu, recognizing the youthful population of the Maldives, emphasized the nation's growing demand for education opportunities and scholarships. He invited New Zealand investors to explore opportunities in the Maldives’ special economic zones, citing them as prime locations for future investment and economic cooperation.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to deepening diplomatic relations and strengthening strategic cooperation on shared priorities. Their discussions reflect a mutual determination to bolster the partnership between the Maldives and New Zealand.