The new British High Commission Nick Low won hearts on Tuesday, as he introduced himself to the Maldivian people in Dhivehi language.
“As-salamu alaikum. Alhuganduge namakee Nick Low. Alhugandakee ingireysi safeeru. Enmenge haalu kihineh?” he said, in a video message shared via the British High Commission’s official account on X on Tuesday evening, after he presented his letter of credence to Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu earlier that day.
These opening lines translates to “As-salamu alaikum. My name is Nick Low. I am the British ambassador. How’s everyone?”
Continuing the rest of his introductory message in English language, Low said that he is mindful that he is the British High Commissioner to the Maldives, and not just the capital Male’ City.
Today, H.E @NickDLow presented his credentials to the President of the Republic of Maldives H.E Dr Mohamed MuizzuHear from Nick as he formally starts his posting as the British High Commissioner to Maldives ????????????????????#NickinRaajje pic.twitter.com/TRZ7fKnBJG
— UK in Maldives ???????????????? (@UKinMaldives) February 4, 2025
“So, I hope, over the next three or four years, I will get to see many of you in the flesh wherever it is that you live,” he said.
Prior to assuming his new post in the Maldives last month, Low served as a senior diplomat in British missions in India, Bangladesh, and China.
Low presented his letter of credence to President Muizzu on Tuesday morning.
In his message, Low described it as a “very warm and a very positive occasion” and a celebration of “our friendship, our cooperation, and our partnerships”.
British High Commissioner Nick Low (L) meets with Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu (R) at the President's Office on February 4, 2025. (Photo/President's Office)
“Sadly, we live in a conflicted and contested world. But the impression I left with is one of great hope and great optimism for what we can do together. What we can do together in creating sustainable growth for both of our countries, for ensuring our security, for fostering development, and for protecting this precious planet that we call home against climate change and loss of the environment,” he said.
“May the Almighty bless our endeavors as we go forward. Shukuriyya,” he said, concluding his message.
Low replaced Caron Röhsler, who left her post after five years in the Maldives. She, too, fostered close ties with the Maldivian community, promoting the local culture and art.