The Maldives and the General Authority of Civil Aviation of Saudi Arabia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in seaplane operations. The agreement was signed by Mohamed Ameen, the Maldives’ Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, and Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics.
This newly signed MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for developing safety and security regulations for water aerodromes and seaplane operations, aligning them with international standards. A significant aspect of the agreement is its focus on sustainability, as it lays out collaborative measures to minimise the environmental impact of aviation activities. The agreement is being viewed as a strategic step in strengthening the partnership between the two nations, particularly in the field of civil aviation.
The signing ceremony took place during Minister Ameen’s official visit to Saudi Arabia, following an invitation from both the Saudi Minister of Transport and Logistics and the President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej. The visit is part of broader diplomatic efforts to bolster the Maldives’ civil aviation sector through increased cooperation with key regional players.
The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation of the Maldives highlighted that Minister Ameen’s visit will include comprehensive discussions aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia in the domain of civil aviation. These discussions are expected to cover various aspects of collaboration, including regulatory alignment, technological advancements, and capacity-building initiatives.
The MoU represents a significant milestone in the Maldives’ pursuit of enhancing its aviation infrastructure and regulatory framework. For Saudi Arabia, it aligns with its broader Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to diversify the kingdom’s economy and develop its transport and logistics sectors.
With the Maldives being a globally renowned destination for luxury tourism, seaplane operations are vital for the archipelago’s connectivity and tourism infrastructure. Enhanced cooperation with Saudi Arabia, a key regional player, is likely to support the Maldives in maintaining its reputation as a top-tier destination while adhering to the highest standards of safety, security, and environmental sustainability.
The agreement is seen as a testament to the growing ties between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, reflecting shared interests in sustainable development and regional cooperation. As both nations continue to navigate the complexities of global aviation standards and environmental challenges, this MoU serves as a foundation for future partnerships, potentially opening avenues for more collaborative initiatives in the years to come.
