Senior U.N. Official concludes official visit to the Maldives

Mr. Tamrat Samuel, Senior Adviser to the United Nations Department of Political Affairs, has concluded his visit to the Maldives, which began on 16 April 2016.

During the visit, the Senior Adviser held extensive discussions with President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon, other senior government officials, leaders of the main political parties, civil society representatives, business leaders, as well the diplomatic community in Malé and Colombo, Sri Lanka. The discussions focused on the current political situation in the country and issues related to the possibility of convening an all-party political dialogue.

Mr. Samuel was encouraged by the frank, open, and constructive manner in which the exchanges took place and by the opportunity he had to discuss ways in which opposing views could be bridged. While major differences still remain between the parties, particularly between the Government and the opposition, on the way forward to convening an-all party dialogue, all sides have affirmed their desire to hold such a dialogue. The discussions have also produced a few promising areas of possible convergence of views and compromise to end the current stalemate and pave the way for dialogue.

However, there remain significant differences of position, which need to be narrowed. All parties will reflect on the discussions that have taken place with the Senior Adviser’s assistance and further consultations will take place in the near future.