In a diplomatic move underscoring the deepening bilateral relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Maldives, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, received a written message from His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Moez, President of the Republic of Maldives. The message focused on ways to strengthen and develop the fraternal relations that unite the two countries and their friendly peoples in various fields.
The message was delivered on behalf of the Crown Prince by His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Engineer Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji, during his meeting today, Thursday, at the Ministry's headquarters in Riyadh, with the Ambassador of the Republic of Maldives to the Kingdom, Mr. Ahmed Sarir. During the meeting, the two sides not only delivered the message but also conducted a comprehensive review of the close bilateral relations, explored prospects for future cooperation, and discussed issues of common interest on the regional and international stages.
Historical background and context of Saudi-Maldivian relations
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Maldives share deep-rooted historical ties, based on the bonds of Islam and common interests. These relations have witnessed remarkable development over the decades, particularly in the economic and developmental spheres. The Kingdom has long been a major supporter of the Maldives through the Saudi Fund for Development, which has contributed to financing numerous vital projects in the archipelago, including infrastructure development such as Velana International Airport and housing projects. This has had a direct and positive impact on the Maldivian economy, which is heavily reliant on tourism.
Strategic importance and expected impact
This message is particularly significant given the new directions of both countries. For the Kingdom, this engagement is part of its proactive foreign policy, spearheaded by the Crown Prince, which aims to build strong and diverse strategic partnerships around the world, serving the goals of Vision 2030. As for the Maldives, which enjoys a vital strategic location in the Indian Ocean, strengthening its ties with a major economic and political power like Saudi Arabia is a cornerstone for achieving its development goals and ensuring its stability in a changing regional environment.
This high-level diplomatic engagement is expected to open the door to a new phase of cooperation, which may include increased Saudi investment in the Maldives' luxury tourism sector, facilitating trade, enhancing coordination in international forums, and cooperation in the areas of renewable energy and environmental security, which are top priorities for an island nation like the Maldives.
