As an embodiment to the ties of brotherhood and profound relations that bond the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Maldives, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom made an official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on 27/5/1433(H) corresponding to 18/3/2015 during which he held talks with the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in an amicable atmosphere that reflected the bonds of brotherhood that unite the two countries and the excellent relations between them. The two leaders discussed the bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest and ways of strengthening their relations. The two sides confirmed their intentions to continue fortifying their bilateral cooperation in all fields including foreign affairs, defense, Islamic affairs, judiciary, economy, commerce, investment, education, and health, and social affairs for the purpose of accomplishing their common interests and providing support to the issues of the Muslim nation, while rejecting any foreign interference in their internal affairs. To this end, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has agreed to open an embassy in the Republic of Maldives. In the field of economic, commercial, and investment relations, the two sides have agreed to develop these relations and increase their commercial exchange while expanding and enhancing investment between the two countries and extending invitations to their respective private sectors to explore the available investment opportunities in both countries. The Saudi Fund for Development will continue to finance the development projects in the Republic of Maldives and will consider participating in the expansion of Malé airport and beaches preservation in Hulhumalé. For the purpose of deepening the educational and cultural cooperation, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced the allocation of one hundred fifty scholarships for students from the Republic of Maldives. The two sides have agreed to finalize the procedures leading to the signing of an agreement in Islamic affairs between the two countries. President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom affirmed that the Republic of Maldives views the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as the country that houses the two holy mosques and as the focus of the hearts of all Muslims as it represents their Qibla. He also emphasized that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the primary partner of the Republic of Maldives. In addition, he extended his sincere thanks and gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques for the support that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to provide towards the Republic of Maldives in all fields, including the services and support rendered to the Maldivian pilgrims and visitors. At the end of his visit, President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom expressed his thanks and appreciation for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud for the hospitality granted to him and his accompanying delegation.
