News & press releases

Press release regarding the decision of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to withdraw from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community

01 February 2020

The Government of the Republic of Maldives recognizes and respects the decision of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to withdraw from the European Union and the European Atomic Energy Community starting from 1 February 2020.

In light of the Withdrawal Agreement which was signed on 24 January 2020, between the European Union, European Atomic Energy Community and the United Kingdom, for the duration of the implementation period that starts on 1 February 2020 and ends on 31 December 2020, the Maldives will continue to view the UK as a European Union Member.The Withdrawal Agreement provides for a time-limited transition period during which, save certain very limited exceptions, Union law is applicable to and in the United Kingdom and that any reference to Member States in Union law, including as implemented and applied by Member States, is to be understood as including the United Kingdom.During the past 54 years, the United Kingdom has been a close traditional friend of the Maldives with our relations stemming from shared values and common interests on numerous important issues. The Maldives will continue to engage closely with the United Kingdom and is confident that the relationship between the two countries will further strengthen in the coming years.ENDS