In a bold move to fortify the Maldives’ international presence, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has appointed former President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik as the Special Envoy of the President. The appointment ceremony took place on Monday at the President’s Office in Malé.
Dr. Waheed, who served as the fifth President of the Maldives from 2012 to 2013, brings a wealth of experience to the role. His extensive career includes serving as Vice President, Member of Parliament for Malé, and holding senior positions within the Ministry of Education. Internationally, he has contributed to various roles with UNICEF, UNDP, and UNESCO .
President Muizzu, recognizing Dr. Waheed’s diplomatic acumen, emphasized the significance of the role in advancing the Maldives’ foreign relations. He encouraged Dr. Waheed to leverage his vast experience to explore economic opportunities and strengthen global partnerships. The President assured him of unwavering support in fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him .
Expressing gratitude, Dr. Waheed affirmed his commitment to serving the nation with dedication. He highlighted that his efforts would align with the President’s strategic vision, ensuring continuity in diplomatic initiatives and economic collaborations. Notably, Dr. Waheed has accepted the position without remuneration, underscoring his dedication to national service .
This appointment marks a renewed collaboration between President Muizzu and Dr. Waheed. Their professional relationship dates back to 2012 when Dr. Muizzu served as the Minister of Housing and Environment under President Waheed’s administration. Their shared history of public service and mutual respect lays a strong foundation for this renewed partnership .
Beyond his political career, Dr. Waheed has been involved in international development projects. He serves on the advisory board of Red Sea Global, a Saudi Arabian initiative aimed at developing luxury tourism destinations. His involvement in such projects reflects his commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation .
President Muizzu’s decision to appoint Dr. Waheed as Special Envoy comes at a time when the Maldives is seeking to enhance its diplomatic engagements and economic partnerships. With Dr. Waheed’s extensive experience and international connections, this strategic move is poised to elevate the Maldives’ global stature and foster new opportunities for growth and collaboration.
