Majlis Speaker Holds Talks with Saudi Shura Council Speaker

News

Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, has paid a courtesy call on Hon. Sheikh Dr. Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Ibrahim Al Sheikh, Speaker of the Shura Council of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

During the meeting, Speaker Abdul Raheem highlighted the long standing relations between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, noting that the ties are rooted in shared Islamic faith and centuries old religious, cultural, and historical connections.

The Speaker expressed sincere gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s continued support for the Maldives’ development, particularly through the Saudi Fund for Development. He underscored the Fund’s vital contribution to key infrastructure projects in the Maldives, including housing developments, water and sewerage systems, and the modernization of Velana International Airport.

Discussions also focused on enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, and renewable energy. Both sides explored ways to institutionalize parliamentary cooperation in order to further strengthen relations between the two parliaments.

Expressing solidarity, Speaker Abdul Raheem conveyed the unwavering support of the Maldivian people for the Palestinian cause and thanked Saudi Arabia for its efforts to promote peace and justice in the Middle East. He further noted that, as a small island nation highly vulnerable to climate change, the Maldives looks forward to Saudi Arabia’s continued leadership in advancing environmental sustainability and supporting vulnerable countries.

Additionally, the Speaker expressed appreciation to the Government of Saudi Arabia for the exemplary facilitation of Hajj and Umrah arrangements for Maldivian pilgrims, while voicing hope for further improvements in easing travel and entry procedures.

The meeting concluded with Speaker Abdul Raheem expressing gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to the Maldivian delegation and formally inviting the Speaker of the Shura Council to visit the Maldives.