A guide for the ocean in maldives

Our trip to Biyadhoo island in May 2010 snorkelling on the house reef using a vivitar 850w underwater video camera

Afghan Taliban, Hezb-e-Islami, clerical leaders and government officials meeting in the Maldives have taken part in the second day of unofficial talks aimed at resolving decades-old conflicts Afghanistan. Khalid Dod, a chief cleric of three Afghan provinces who is attending the convention, told Al Jazeera he will be giving advice to Taliban leaders in Afghanistan after the meeting. He has said he promotes “political” jihad over its “ideologic or armed” forms. Gullbadsha Majdidi, an Afghan MP attending the meeting as well, emphasised the importance of the involvement of women in the peace process. Al Jazeera’s Dan Nolan reports from the Maldives. [May 21, 2010]

Representatives from the Afghan government, the Taliban and a number of other armed groups have gathered in the Maldives for talks aimed at reaching a political reconciliation in Afghanistan. The delegates all say they are not officially representing anyone, but that their leaders are aware of their attendance at the talks. But with discussions ranging from the need for fresh elections to the future of foreign troops in the country, some say there is little optimism about the outcome of the talks. Al Jazeera’s Dan Nolan reports. [20 May 10]

Towing Surfing in Maldives, shot during the biggest swell in May 2010. Waves sized in excess of 3-4 meters, created unique conditions both Surfers and Jet-Ski Riders.