The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Moosa Zameer, is currently on an official visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain, where he has engaged in a series of high-level discussions aimed at fortifying the longstanding diplomatic relationship between the two nations.
During an audience with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander, and Prime Minister of Bahrain at the Al-Qudaibiya Palace, Minister Zameer delivered a letter from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu addressed to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The letter symbolised the continued commitment of the Maldives to the enduring ties between the two countries, which have been marked by mutual respect and cooperation over the past several decades.
The meeting at Al-Qudaibiya Palace provided a platform for both leaders to discuss pressing international issues, including the global economic climate, climate change, and environmental challenges. Minister Zameer expressed his appreciation for Bahrain’s continued support and conveyed the Maldives’ commitment to further enhancing the bilateral partnership.
Earlier in the day, Minister Zameer held a separate meeting with his Bahraini counterpart, Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Manama. The two ministers reflected on the deep-rooted bonds between their countries, which are founded on shared Islamic heritage and common values. The discussions were centred on ways to strengthen economic cooperation, with a particular focus on exploring new avenues for partnership.
Significantly, the possibility of holding the first round of bilateral political consultations between the Maldives and Bahrain was discussed. These consultations are a direct result of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s State Visit to Bahrain in 2022. During that visit, four key agreements were established between the two nations, laying the groundwork for increased diplomatic engagement. Both ministers agreed on the importance of these consultations and expressed optimism that they could be convened at a mutually convenient time.
Throughout his engagements in Bahrain, Minister Zameer was accompanied by a delegation that included Ambassador-at-Large Ahmed Naseer and Secretary for Bilateral Affairs Dr Hala Hameed. The delegation’s presence underscores the Maldivian government’s commitment to nurturing and expanding its diplomatic ties with Bahrain.
The visit marks a crucial step in the ongoing efforts by both nations to deepen their bilateral relationship, particularly in the face of evolving regional and global challenges. The outcomes of the discussions held during this visit are expected to set the stage for enhanced cooperation in the months and years to come.
