Maldives-Saudi Ties Entering New Phase: President

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said the Maldives-Saudi Arabia relationship is entering a new phase with increased scope for investment, economic cooperation and development partnerships between the two countries.

Speaking at a reception marking Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day at Niva Kurumba Maldives on Wednesday evening, President Muizzu said the Maldives is looking to deepen its engagement with Saudi Arabia across several sectors as the country pursues its economic development agenda.

The President identified tourism, infrastructure, housing, healthcare, fisheries, renewable energy and logistics as areas with significant potential for increased Saudi investment and cooperation.

He said the Maldives remains committed to strengthening its investment environment and creating greater opportunities for Saudi companies and investors to participate in the country’s development.

President Muizzu also highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries, describing the Maldives and Saudi Arabia as nations connected by shared faith and values, mutual respect and close ties.

He expressed appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s continued assistance to the Maldives, including support provided following the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

The President also pointed to Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, particularly in areas including economic diversification, infrastructure, innovation and sustainable development.

In discussing broader bilateral cooperation, President Muizzu highlighted the formalisation of the Charter of the Multinational Maritime Defence as an important development in relations between the two countries.

He also said the Maldives’ participation in Expo 2030 Riyadh would create additional opportunities to promote tourism, investment, innovation and people-to-people ties.

President Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives’ intention to work closely with Saudi Arabia at both bilateral and multilateral levels, particularly on issues concerning peace, stability and prosperity and challenges facing the Muslim world.

The reception was attended by Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives Yahya Hassan Al-Qahtani, who received President Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed upon their arrival.

Following the President’s address, the Saudi ambassador presented him with a commemorative memento. Videos showcasing the historical relationship between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, as well as Saudi Arabia’s development and future outlook, were also screened at the event.

Saudi Arabia’s National Day was commemorated this year under the theme “Our Pride is in Our Nature.”