President Waheed Arrives in London for Diamond Jubilee Celebrations

President Dr Mohamed Waheed arrived in London Monday night, to begin a five day visit that will see him attend official engagements held in honour of The Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Head of the Commonwealth. First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain is accompanying the President during this visit.

Yesterday, President Waheedand the First Lady took up their official invitations from the Palace and join other world leaders for a National Service of Thanksgiving to honour 60 years of Her Majesty’s reign. Following the ceremony the President and First Lady attended an official lunch for foreign dignitaries hosted by British Secretary for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, The Right Honourable William Hague MP.

Tomorrow, President Waheed will attend a lunch for Commonwealth Heads of Government, hosted by Commonwealth Secretary-General Mr Kamalesh Sharma.

Additionally, President Waheedwill use the trip to the UK as an opportunity to brief Heads of State, and senior officials of the UK and other Commonwealth countries on the current political and economic situation in Maldives.

Before his return to Maldives on Friday, the President will also use his time in the UK to engage with the British and international media, and meet the Maldivian community in the UK.