The Maldives and the European Union (EU) have agreed to strengthen relations in key areas of mutual priority during the first partnership dialogue.

The Foreign Ministry said the discussions were based on the meetings of senior officials held since 2020.

They agreed to strengthen democratic governance, human rights, climate change, maritime security and regional security, trade, fisheries and relations between Maldivians and Europeans.

The two sides agreed to further expand security cooperation in the coming years.

During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on the importance of upholding democratic principles and fundamental rights, especially freedom of expression, and creating an enabling environment for civil society.

As a party to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the EU urged the Maldives to comply with the convention.

Discussions were also held about access to EU markets for Maldivian fish products and eliminating tariff barriers.

The EU agreed to provide an additional €4 million for climate change protection and a mangrove conservation project.

The government repeated the request for Maldivians to be included in the list of countries that can travel to Europe without a Schengen visa.