Saudi Envoy Arrives in Maldives as Guest of Honour for Independence Day

Prince Dr Mansour bin Mutaib bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has arrived in the Maldives to participate in the official celebrations marking the country's 61st Independence Day. The Prince is attending the festivities as the Guest of Honour, representing Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. The visit follows a formal invitation from President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, underscoring the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship between Male' and Riyadh. Upon his arrival at Velana International Airport, Prince Mansour was received by Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam and the Principal Secretary to the President on Foreign Relations, Mohamed Naseer. In accordance with official diplomatic protocol for visiting dignitaries, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) accorded the Saudi royal a Guard of Honour. This ceremony marks the beginning of a high-level visit intended to strengthen diplomatic bonds during a significant milestone in the Maldivian calendar. The presence of the Saudi envoy during the 61st anniversary of independence reflects the deepening ties and mutual cooperation between the two nations. The visit serves as a gesture of solidarity and friendship, highlighting Saudi Arabia's continued engagement with the island nation on the global stage.