Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer has embarked on a series of comprehensive discussions aimed at reducing tariffs imposed on Maldivian fish exports to European nations during his ongoing visit to Brussels, Belgium.

Zameer engaged in dialogue with Nicola Procaccini, a Member of the European Parliament. The discussions revolved around reducing tariffs on Maldivian fish products, the prospect of visa-free travel for Maldivians to Europe, and exploring opportunities to further enhance cooperation between the Maldives and the European Union, according to the foreign ministry.

Zameer’s visit to Belgium is part of an official initiative to augment the ongoing engagements with the European Union (EU). His itinerary includes scheduled meetings with key senior officials of the EU and members of the European Parliament. The primary focus of these engagements is to elevate and strengthen the diplomatic relations between the Maldives and the European Union, the foreign ministry said.

Zameer also met with Paola Pampaloni, the Deputy Managing Director of the European External Action Service (EEAS), as part of his visit. The meeting included discussions on tackling climate change, economic development, security cooperation, reducing tariffs on Maldivian tuna by the EU, and the prospect of visa-free travel to Europe for Maldivians.

The Maldives and the EU share a robust partnership in addressing common challenges. The cooperation between the two entities holds substantial geopolitical and economic significance. Zameer’s visit marks a significant stride towards strengthening ties and advancing cooperation between the Maldives and the EU in areas of mutual concern. Zameer is also scheduled to participate in the third EU Indo-Pacific Ministerial Forum during the visit.