UNDP’s New Resident Representative Adnan Cheema Presents Credentials in the Maldives

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has officially welcomed its new Resident Representative to the Maldives, Mr Adnan Cheema, who presented his credentials to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Dr Abdulla Khaleel, during a formal meeting held in Malé.

Mr Cheema, a seasoned development expert from the United Kingdom, now leads UNDP’s operations in the Maldives at a transformative time for the island nation. With the government pushing forward its ambition to achieve developed country status by 2040, Mr Cheema will spearhead efforts that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on climate resilience, governance reform, economic diversification and inclusive growth.

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Expressing gratitude for the warm reception, Mr Cheema reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to advancing the Maldives’ development agenda. “UNDP has been a trusted partner of the Maldives for over four decades, and I am honoured to take on this responsibility at such a critical juncture,” he said. “We will continue to stand with the people of Maldives to deliver results that matter, especially as the nation faces the converging challenges of climate vulnerability, economic diversification, and governance reform.”

During the meeting, both parties discussed the forthcoming Country Programme Document (CPD) for 2026–2030, which will outline UNDP’s strategic collaboration with the Maldivian government. Minister Khaleel welcomed Mr Cheema and acknowledged UNDP’s long-standing support. “We recognise our longstanding partnership with the UNDP, and its efforts to support our national initiatives. I hope that this partnership continues to grow,” he stated.

Mr Cheema brings over 30 years of international experience in development, peacebuilding and crisis response across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Prior to his appointment in the Maldives, he served as Deputy Resident Representative for UNDP in Myanmar and held senior roles in Yemen, Iraq, and Sudan.

With academic credentials from the University of Bristol and SOAS, University of London, Mr Cheema’s appointment marks a renewed chapter in the Maldives–UNDP partnership, as the country seeks sustainable solutions to its most pressing challenges.