The Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has discussed the latest updates of the global Covid-19 pandemic with his counterpart from the United Arab Emirates, Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

This was done during a virtual video conference held on Monday evening as a follow-up of the recent telephone call between the pair on April 10, 2020.

Taking to Twitter after the constructive online meeting, FM Shahid wrote that Maldives is “privileged” to have a true friend and partner in the UAE as the island nation embraces the new normal while remaining “vigilant against Covid-19”.

FM Shahid discussed the road ahead for both countries in easing restrictions put in place against the pandemic and embracing the new normal.

Possible collaborations between the two countries in the future, was also a topic of discussion.

The Maldives minister commended UAE’s campaign aimed at early detection and treatment through extensive testing and highlighted that Maldives is looking towards enhancing the island nation’s testing capacity while resuming economic activities.

FM Shahid shed light on the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on the Maldives economy and reiterated his gratitude to UAE for the generous donation of essential supplies earlier in June.

The government of UAE donated 72 tonnes of medical equipment and supplies worth AED 18,331,425.00 (approximately USD five million).

During the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together on bilateral, regional and international issues of mutual importance, to further boost the brotherly ties between the two countries.