The government of Australia has officially opened its first-ever High Commission in the Maldives, marking a significant milestone in diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The High Commission was inaugurated yesterday, during a ceremony held at Jen Maldives by Shangri-La. The event was attended by Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles, and the Maldives’ Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr Maryam Mariya.
Dr Mariya emphasised that the bilateral relationship between the Maldives and Australia is built on mutual respect. She stated that the establishment of the High Commission would further strengthen this relationship. She also acknowledged Australia’s continued support in key sectors, particularly maritime safety, education, and healthcare.
Richard Marles said the opening of the High Commission reflected the joint efforts of both nations to deepen their bilateral ties. He noted Australia’s longstanding assistance to the Maldives in areas such as education and skills development and expressed the country’s interest in expanding cooperation in the field of defence.
The ceremony was also attended by Deputy Speaker and Dhiggaru MP Ahmed Nazim and Australian Ambassador to the Maldives David Jessup.
The inauguration coincides with the Deputy Prime Minister’s official two-day visit to the Maldives. As part of the visit, the Australian government will gift a Guardian-class patrol vessel to the Maldives. These vessels, designed and built in Australia, are used for various patrolling purposes and are provided to small island nations under the Pacific Maritime Security Program.
During his visit, Marles also met with Maldives Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef to discuss strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries.
