His Excellency Yahya Hassan Alqahtani, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Maldives, paid a courtesy call on Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis.

During the meeting, the Speaker highlighted the longstanding ties of friendship and solidarity between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, underpinned by the shared Islamic faith and common values.  The Speaker also highlighted the importance of recent high-level exchanges between the two countries in strengthening bilateral relations and fostering closer institutional cooperation, noting that these reciprocal visits had provided valuable opportunities to deepen engagement and mutual understanding.

The Ambassador reviewed the friendly relations between the two countries and reaffirmed the desire to maintain and strengthen the ongoing diplomatic, parliamentary, and cultural connections.

The meeting also covered the regional security situation, including the escalation of hostilities and Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia, as well as the resulting humanitarian challenges in Yemen. Discussions further highlighted Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian assistance and ongoing efforts to promote regional peace and stability. Furthermore, the Speaker reaffirmed the Maldives’ solidarity with Saudi Arabia and emphasised the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation in addressing regional developments.

Chairperson of the Foreign Relations Committee, Hassan Zareer, MP, stated that the Maldives and Saudi Arabia had enjoyed longstanding and cordial relations founded on their shared Islamic faith and mutual respect. He expressed hope that, following the recent adoption of the convention, the Ambassador’s visit would further strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the two brotherly nations.

Hon. Speaker was accompanied by the Members of the Foreign Relations Committee and Secretary General, Uza. Fathimath Niusha.