KATHMANDU: Minister for Foreign Affairs MahendraBahadur Pandey stressed on consolidating the SAARC process and need for Nepal and Maldives to work together in international forums.

Minister Pandey said this during his meeting with the Foreign Minister of the Republic of Maldives, Dunya Maumoon at the latter’s office in Male on Monday afternoon. During the meeting, the two Foreign Ministers deliberated on various matters of common interests, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today.

Minister Pandey congratulated the Government and people of Maldives on celebrating the 50th year of their independence and expressed that Maldives' half a century's journey as independent nation has been marked by progress in institutionalisation of democracy, economic growth, development of basic infrastructure and prosperity of people.

He stressed that the two countries should work together in international forums to promote the interests of smaller countries. He also stressed the need to further consolidate the SAARC process for the maximum benefit of the people of the region.

Earlier on Tuesday, Foreign Minister attended the lunche hosted in honour of the foreign dignitaries by the Vice President of the Maldives.

Minister Pandey attended special functions organised to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Maldives’ independence On July 26. He is scheduled to return to Kathmandu this evening.