Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has travelled to Saudi Arabia on a special invitation from the Saudi Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, Sheikh Dr Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh.
During the visit, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments and Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance are scheduled to hold an official consultation meeting. Dr Shaheem will also attend the closing ceremony of the King Abdulaziz International Quran Competition.
The Maldives and Saudi Arabia have always maintained close relations, with Saudi Arabia assisting in developing the religious sector in the Maldives. The Saudi Government also continues to support the Maldives by facilitating arrangements for Maldivian pilgrims during Hajj.
The Maldives and Saudi Arabia formally established diplomatic relations on 17 March 1981. Saudi Arabia continues to support the Maldives across several sectors, providing financial and other forms of assistance towards the country’s development.