Dec 4, 2008, 10:25 GMT
Britain's Prince Andrew has met with the new President of the Maldives.
During the meeting, the Duke of York spoke to President Mohamed Nasheed about his country's economic status - much of which depends on international assistance.
Nasheed revealed the Maldives - an idyllic island nation situated in the Indian Ocean - is encouraging overseas voluntary workers to come to the country, as he emphasised the importance of increasing voluntary service organisations.
The president also discussed plans to develop the Gan International Airport and improve hospital facilities.
The pair spoke about how they could strengthen relations between Britain and the Maldives, as the president insisted his country needs more international technical assistance for the joint ventures undertaken by the government.
During the meeting - which was also attended by the Maldives Vice President Dr. Mohamed Waheed, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ahmed Shaheed and the British High Commissioner to the Maldives Dr. Peter Heyes - the prince learned the Maldives government is planning to open up state-owned businesses for joint venture.
Nasheed was sworn in as the Maldives' first democratically elected president last month.
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