The Maldives and Saudi Arabia have held discussions on strengthening bilateral relations during a courtesy call between Speaker of the People’s Majlis Abdul Raheem Abdullah and Speaker of the Shura Council of Saudi Arabia, Dr Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al-Sheikh.

The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation between the two countries, particularly at the parliamentary level, while reaffirming long-standing ties rooted in shared religious, cultural and historical links. Speaker Abdul Raheem highlighted the close relationship between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, noting the importance of continued engagement between the People’s Majlis and the Shura Council.

During the discussions, the Speaker expressed appreciation to the Saudi Government for its continued support towards the development of the Maldives. He acknowledged the role of the Saudi Fund for Development in financing key national projects, including housing initiatives, water and sewerage systems, and the modernisation of Velana International Airport.

Speaker Abdul Raheem also commended Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote peace, stability and development in the Middle East, reiterating the Maldives’ long-standing support for the Palestinian people. He further noted that as one of the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, the Maldives values Saudi Arabia’s initiatives in environmental protection and its assistance to environmentally vulnerable nations.

The meeting also addressed ways to further strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, tourism and renewable energy, alongside discussions on deepening parliamentary collaboration between the two legislative bodies.

In addition, the Speaker expressed gratitude to the Saudi Government for facilitating Hajj and Umrah arrangements for Maldivian pilgrims and voiced hope for further easing of travel and logistical arrangements for Maldivians undertaking the pilgrimages.

Concluding the meeting, Speaker Abdul Raheem thanked the Shura Council for the hospitality extended to him and the Maldivian delegation, and extended an invitation to the President of the Shura Council to visit the Maldives.