Maldives and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) have discussed enabling PayPal services in the Maldives. The discussions took place between President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and the Administrator of the USAID Samantha Power, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79).
During the meeting, the USAID Administrator commended the Maldives' ambitious plans and expressed the USAID's commitment to collaborate with the Maldives on various initiatives. She also discussed facilitating the Maldives' membership in the Open Government Partnership (OGP) and providing potential support for enabling PayPal services in the Maldives. Both initiatives closely align with the development agenda of the Maldives.
PayPal, a widely used e-wallet application, facilitates convenient online transactions. However, while Maldivians can use PayPal to send funds abroad, they encounter challenges when it comes to receiving payments. The Maldivian government is exerting efforts to resolve these issued and introduce PayPal, as introducing online payment systems and e-wallets in the Maldives is a pledge of President Dr. Muizzu.
Concluding the bilateral meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to collaborate on avenues of shared interest, such that it ensures mutual benefits for both nations.