The Foreign Relations Committee of Parliament has officially approved the appointment of Aishath Azeema as the High Commissioner of Maldives to India.

Azeema, who is currently serving as the Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was nominated for the position by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu just yesterday.

During today’s committee meeting, Maafannu South MP Abdullah Rifau initially suggested that Azeema be interviewed for the role. However, Kulhudhuffushi South MP Mohamed Dawood proposed that the committee approve her appointment without an interview, highlighting her extensive education and experience. Following this motion, which garnered support from other members, MP Rifau withdrew his initial proposal, and the committee subsequently approved Azeema's appointment unanimously.

Azeema served as the Maldives Ambassador to China from 2019 to 2023.

Her appointment as High Commissioner follows the completion of Ibrahim Shaheeb's term in India. Shaheeb, who was appointed High Commissioner in November 2022 during the administration of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, previously served as the Maldives Ambassador to Singapore for one year. His diplomatic career began in 1991 and has included various roles, such as Chief of Protocol in 2018.

According to the Foreign Service Act, ambassadors and High Commissioners are appointed for a term of three years.