The Non-Resident Ambassador of the State of Palestine to the Maldives, His Excellency Ihab Ibrahim Mohamed Khalil, formally presented his Letter of Credence to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at a ceremony held at the President’s Office on Thursday.
The Ambassador was received with traditional honours, including a cultural “Haiykolhu” procession accompanied by the Maldives National Defence Force Drum and Trumpet Band, in a display of the country’s customary diplomatic hospitality.
During the meeting, Ambassador Khalil expressed deep appreciation for the Maldives’ long-standing support for the Palestinian cause. President Muizzu, in turn, reiterated the country’s unwavering commitment to Palestine, stating that the Maldives’ position on the matter would remain steadfast.
The encounter also served as an opportunity for both sides to underline their mutual intention to strengthen bilateral relations.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and the State of Palestine were established in 1982, under the presidency of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. Since then, successive Maldivian administrations have consistently voiced support for Palestine’s pursuit of statehood and sovereignty. The Maldives has repeatedly called for an end to the Israeli occupation and has been vocal in regional and international forums, including the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), advocating for Palestinian rights.
In 2014, the Maldives announced a boycott of Israeli products following the escalation of conflict in Gaza. More recently, the Maldives was among the countries that condemned Israeli military actions in Gaza and reaffirmed support for a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders.
Ambassador Khalil’s accreditation comes at a time when international attention remains focused on the escalating humanitarian situation in Palestine. For the Maldives, his appointment signals a continued commitment to diplomatic engagement and solidarity with the Palestinian people.
