Bangladesh, Maldives eye closer relations
Bangladesh and the Maldives have reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations, with both sides emphasising a pragmatic partnership based on mutual respect, shared interests and closer regional cooperation.
The commitment came during a meeting between Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman and Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu shortly after the foreign minister arrived in Malé on Saturday as the special guest for the 61st Independence Anniversary celebrations of the Republic of Maldives.
During the courtesy call at the President’s Office, Dr Rahman conveyed the warm greetings of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and thanked President Muizzu for attending the installation ceremony of Bangladesh’s newly elected government in February.
He also expressed appreciation for the Maldivian president’s support for his candidature for the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Dr Rahman highlighted the BNP led government’s foreign policy priority of maintaining strong relations with all countries on the basis of mutual respect and shared interests under the principle of “Bangladesh First”.
The two leaders expressed satisfaction over the excellent state of Bangladesh Maldives relations and agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation through a practical approach that would deliver mutual benefits for both countries.
They also reviewed recent regional and international developments and underscored the importance of revitalising the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to promote greater regional cooperation.
The meeting also focused on labour cooperation, with Dr Rahman expressing satisfaction over the employment of a significant number of Bangladeshi workers and professionals in the Maldives.
President Muizzu acknowledged their valuable contribution to the Maldivian economy and praised the role they continue to play in the country’s development.
Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam, Minister of Homeland Security Ali Ihusaan and Bangladesh High Commissioner to the Maldives Dr Md Nazmul Islam attended the meeting.
Later, President Muizzu hosted a high tea in honour of the visiting Bangladeshi foreign minister. The reception was attended by Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, cabinet ministers and senior government officials.
Earlier, upon his arrival in Malé, Dr Rahman was received at the airport by Maldivian Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam.
In the evening, the foreign minister attended a Diplomatic Outreach Event hosted by his Maldivian counterpart, where he exchanged views with senior ministers, foreign ambassadors and representatives of international organisations accredited to the Maldives.
The discussions focused on strengthening diplomatic engagement and expanding cooperation on issues of mutual interest.
