New York: An inter-agency United Nations mission will embark on a six-day visit to Maldives tomorrow to determine whether the world body should provide assistance to forthcoming elections in the Indian Ocean island chain.

The fact-finding mission, which is being led by the UN Department of Political Affairs, is expected to meet a broad range of people in the Maldives during the visit, which follows a request from the country's government, UN spokesperson Farhan Haq told reporters.

The delegation will interact with senior Government officials, political leaders, diplomats, members of civil society, representatives of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and other important dignitaries.

Multi-party presidential elections are expected to be held in the Maldives by October this year, with parliamentary polls likely to be held by early next year.
Source : PTI