US’s focus on secure Maldives with sustainable economy, climate resilience: Ambassador

The United States is focused on a secure Maldives that is economically stable and climate change resilient, said the US Ambassador to the Maldives Hugo Yon.

Yon made the remarks at the special ceremony held at JEN Maldives Male’ by Shangri-La on Sunday evening to commemorate the US Embassy’s anniversary.

“..what are we focused on? A democratic, sovereign, and secure Maldives with an economy that is financial sustainable and climate change resilient,” Yon said.

Continuing in this manner, Yon said that the United States remains committed in its support to the “Maldives’ desire to strengthen and protect its sovereignty in all fields”. He noted the Maldives has been a friend to all nations, “especially when it comes to the use of the critical sea lanes” passing through the vast ocean territory.

While highlighting his participation at the 4^th Partnership Conference for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) held in Antigua in May, Yon said he saw Maldives leading by example on climate change initiatives.

He called Maldives has “become the admiration of many SIDS”.

“Maldives continues to be a consistent global voice and leader on the need for action on global climate change.”

Drawing parallels on both countries gaining independence in the past, Yon said that much like the United States, Maldives had won its independence from the British.

“You have a long history of fighting for your sovereignty and freedom, no matter what Great Power tried to come in.”

He also said that both countries have a rich history rooted in the quest for freedom.

While concluding his speech, Yon had celebrated the US-Maldives bilateral relations and said he looked forward for expanding and deepening ties between the two countries.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer and Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam were among the high-profile attendees to the ceremony from the Maldives government.

The Maldives and United States established diplomatic relations in 1966.