Maldives President Expresses Profound Gratitude to Saudi Leadership, Citing Deepening Bilateral Cooperation
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has expressed deep appreciation to the leadership of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, reaffirming that enhancing ties with the Arab and Islamic world, especially Saudi Arabia remains the Maldives’ foremost diplomatic priority.
He noted that the Maldives places exceptional importance on this partnership, which continues to deliver wide-ranging benefits for the Maldivian people through key initiatives and development cooperation.
Speaking at a ceremony held at the Social Centre on Monday to mark the government’s two-year anniversary, President Dr. Muizzu highlighted the pivotal role played by the Kingdom in elevating bilateral cooperation.
In our foreign relations, the highest priority is given to strengthening ties with the Arab and Islamic world, with special emphasis on our relationship with Saudi Arabia. Through this relationship, and due to the priority given by the King and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, the Makkah Route Initiative was established
He stated
He further conveyed the nation’s gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince:
Today, I wish to express my deepest gratitude, and that on behalf of the Maldivian people, to the King and the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia
He added
The President noted that the Makkah Route Initiative had considerably eased the pilgrimage process for Maldivians last year and is expected to continue delivering significant improvements for pilgrims in the coming year.
The President’s remarks align with Saudi Arabia’s continued emphasis on its partnership with the Maldives.
Saudi Arabia’s development support primarily through the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD)—has played a key role in shaping national projects across the Maldives.
Since 1978, SFD has financed 14 major development initiatives through 17 loans amounting to over USD 488 million, including airport expansion, housing programs, and health-sector investments.
Recent agreements include a USD 17 million loan for further expansion of Velana International Airport bringing total Saudi support for VIA to USD 217 million and a USD 25 million concessional loan for a 400-unit affordable housing project.
Additionally, the Makkah Route Initiative, part of Saudi Vision 2030, is designed to streamline Hajj services by enabling Maldivian pilgrims to complete immigration, customs, visa processing, and health checks at Velana International Airport before departure.
This significantly reduces delays on arrival in Saudi Arabia and enhances the overall efficiency and comfort of the pilgrimage experience.
Saudi–Maldives relations continue to bring tangible benefits to the Maldivian people.
Advertisement
