Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives Yahya Hassan Al-Qahtani has highlighted Saudi Arabia’s contribution of approximately USD 488 million to development projects and programmes in the Maldives since 1978, describing development cooperation as an important pillar of bilateral relations.
In a message marking Saudi Arabia’s 96th National Day, Ambassador Al-Qahtani said the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD) has supported projects in key sectors including infrastructure, housing, healthcare, water and sanitation, and transport.
He said the longstanding relationship between Saudi Arabia and the Maldives is built on “deep ties of Islamic brotherhood, mutual respect and close friendship”, with cooperation expanding across political, developmental, economic, educational and Islamic fields.
The ambassador also said Saudi Arabia appreciates the Maldives’ positions towards the Kingdom, describing them as reflecting solidarity, mutual respect and enduring friendship between the two countries and their peoples.
Looking ahead, Al-Qahtani said Saudi Arabia remains committed to expanding cooperation with the Maldives in areas including Islamic affairs, trade, investment, development, tourism, education and technology.
He said the two countries should work to translate their longstanding ties into practical partnerships that contribute to the prosperity and wellbeing of their peoples.
The ambassador also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s development under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, saying the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 programme has advanced economic diversification, investment, innovation, technology and tourism.
Saudi National Day commemorates the unification of the Kingdom under the leadership of its founder, King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.
Al-Qahtani extended his greetings to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the Maldivian government and people, expressing hope for continued prosperity and stronger relations between the two countries.