President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has discussed expanding trade relations between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia. He held the discussions during a meeting with Commerce Minister of Saudi Arabia Majid Al-Kasabi during his visit to Mina, Saudi Arabia as part of his Hajj pilgrimage.
At the meeting, discussions were focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in commerce and trade between the two countries. President Solih also thanked the Saudi government for the hospitality extended to him and his delegation during their current visit to Saudi Arabia to perform this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
In a tweet, President Solih said it was a distinct pleasure to meet Minister Majid and that they discussed on enhancing development cooperation between Maldives and Saudi Arabia and further strengthening the longstanding bilateral ties. Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia were established in 1981.
President Solih and First Lady Fazna Ahmed traveled to Saudi Arabia on an unofficial visit on July 4 to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. President Solih has been closely monitoring the travel and accommodation procedures of the Maldivian Hajj pilgrims, and had also met with the last group of pilgrims at Velana International Airport (VIA) prior to their departure.