President Nathan in Maldives for state visit

President S R Nathan is in Maldives on a four-day state visit, the first by a Singaporean Head of State.

President Nathan is accompanied by Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan, senior government officials and a 14-member business delegation.

Maldives President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom welcomed Mr Nathan and the Singapore entourage at a formal ceremony.

President Nathan's visit is significant as it comes just nine months after President Gayoom's state visit to Singapore.

Mr Nathan's visit from 23-26 October is timely as he will officiate at the inauguration of an integrated primary and secondary school on Hulhumale Island.

The project is a symbol of Singapore's reconstruction assistance package for the Maldives following the December 2004 tsunami.

Among the key themes to be discussed during Mr Nathan's visit are energy, sustainable development and climate change.

Tourism, a key driver of the Maldives economy of just under a billion US dollars, is also expected to figure prominently during the meetings

Source: CNA