Maldives leader hopes to expand economic partnership with Saudi Arabia

Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on Wednesday expressed hope for further expanding the economic partnership between Maldives and Saudi Arabia.

He expressed the hope in letters to Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud on occasion of Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day.

In his letters, President Muizzu described Saudi Arabia as a “cherished and trusted” partner of the Maldives.

He said that the longstanding relations between the two countries, founded on shared Islamic values and a common commitment to the wellbeing and solidarity of the Islamic Ummah, continue to deepen through close cooperation, mutual respect and shared understanding.

According to a statement issued by the President’s Office, he also expressed hope for further expanding the economic partnership between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, particularly through investment in transformative development initiatives.

He stated that he looked forward to further strengthening bilateral cooperation and opening new avenues that would deliver lasting benefits to the people of both countries, said the President’s Office.

In his letters, President Muizzu expressed confidence that the bonds of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between the two countries will continue to flourish in the years ahead, bringing lasting and mutual benefits to both peoples.

He also extended his best wishes for the continued good health, happiness and success of King Salman and Crown Prince MBS, and lasting peace, progress and prosperity for the people of Saudi Arabia.

President Muizzu also shared Saudi National Day greetings in a post on X, reflecting on the centuries-old bond between Maldives and Saudi Arabia.

He also expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s support to the Maldives over the years.

“We remain deeply grateful for the generous support and immense contributions made by Saudi Arabia, to the socio-economic development of the Maldives,” he wrote.

Maldives and Saudi Arabia established official diplomatic relations on March 17, 1981. However, religious, cultural, and trade ties between the two countries date back centuries.