Maldives and Serbia signed five key agreements on Tuesday, including an air services agreement.The agreements were signed on behalf of the Maldivian government by Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, who is on an official visit to Serbia.

In addition to an air services agreement, Maldives and Serbia signed an agreement on trade, investment and economic cooperation, an MoU between the foreign ministries of Maldives and Serbia on cooperation in the field of diplomatic education, and an MoU between the sports ministries of Maldives and Serbia in the field of sports.

In a tweet following the signing, Shahid said the air services agreement will not only allow direct flights between Maldives and Serbia, but will also boost people-to-people ties and boost tourism.

Meanwhile, the trade agreement increases Maldives’ economic security and provides access to new markets for Maldivian exports and for increased investment from Serbia, he said.

Following the signing, Shahid met with the First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Serbia, Ivica Dačić.

Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid (L) meets Serbian First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ivica Dačić (R) on May 9, 2023. (Photo/Foreign Ministry)

During the meeting, Shahid and Dačić exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in existing areas, and exploring new avenues of cooperation, particularly on trade, tourism, sports and environment.

They both expressed interest in continuing to work closely together, bilaterally and in the international fora, on issues of mutual interest.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to the implementation of the agreements signed Tuesday.

Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid and Serbian First Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ivica Dačić hold bilateral talks on May 9, 2023. (Photo/Foreign Ministry)

Shahid was accompanied at the meeting by President’s Office Chief of Staff, Ali Zahir; Secretary Bilateral, Dr. Hala Hameed; Hussain Jahhaz; and Assistant Director, Fathmath Lamya Imthiyaz.

Shahid’s current visit to Serbia marks his second official visit to the country.

According to a statement issued by the foreign ministry, the visit “signifies a step towards greater bilateral exchange between Serbia and Maldives.”

Shahid will conclude his visit Wednesday.