Maldives and the US have commenced discussions to enhance trade relations between both countries. The discussions are held as part of the second joint council meeting of Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA).
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the council meeting, Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail spoke on enhancing trade ties between both countries. In this regard, he expressed hope the relations will be strengthened in the coming days. The meeting is attended by senior members from economic ministry and members from relevant authorities of the US. The first joint council meeting was held in October 2014.
Back in February, during a visit of Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid to the US discussions were held on ways to further attract foreign direct investment from the US and increase access of Maldives fisheries exports to the US markets at a meeting held with Assistant US Trade Representative for Trade and Policy Ed Gresser.
During the meeting, the assistant US trade representative informed the US government will resume discussions in May with Maldives under the TIFA signed between the two countries.
TIFA was signed between the US and Maldives in 2009 aiming to expand trade and investment between the two countries, reduce trade barriers and protect intellectual property rights and worker's rights.