Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim concludes State Visit to Maldives

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has departed the Maldives, concluding his two-day State Visit made at the invitation of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

The Prime Minister arrived in the country early on Monday and was welcomed at Velana International Airport by President Muizzu. He received a full ceremonial welcome, including a cultural performance and a guard of honour.

During the visit, the Malaysian government agreed to provide the USD 100 million financing facility requested by the Maldives. Anwar said Bank Negara Malaysia and the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) have agreed to fast-track the necessary work to complete the arrangement as soon as possible.

The Prime Minister also said he would hold discussions with Malaysian oil company Petronas regarding its proposal to assist the Maldives in conducting oil and mineral exploration studies within Maldivian territory.

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla and Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam were scheduled to pay separate courtesy calls on the Prime Minister.

Maldives and Malaysia have now marked 58 years of diplomatic relations. The two countries enjoy close ties between their governments and peoples, and high-level visits such as this are expected to further expand cooperation in various areas of development.