The Maldives has formally inaugurated its first resident embassy in Türkiye, a milestone that underscores the growing diplomatic ties between the two nations and signals a new phase of bilateral engagement.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Türkiye, brought together senior officials from both governments. In attendance were Dr Abdulla Khaleel, Maldives' Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Türkiye's Minister of Culture and Tourism; and Lieutenant General (Retired) Abdulla Abdul Latheef, Maldivian Ambassador to Türkiye.
The establishment of the embassy is a "historic achievement", the Maldives' foreign ministry said, reinforcing the two nations' commitment to deepening cooperation. Minister Khaleel described the diplomatic mission as a vital link in advancing economic collaboration, strengthening cultural exchange, and fostering closer ties between their citizens. The embassy is expected to serve as a key institution in fostering mutual prosperity, enhancing cultural ties, and deepening understanding between the Maldives and Türkiye, he said.
In addition to its diplomatic responsibilities, the ministry said, the embassy will oversee the implementation of Maldivian foreign policy and provide critical consular services to citizens residing in Türkiye. Minister Khaleel noted that Maldivians seeking consular assistance would benefit from a more streamlined support system, easing logistical challenges for those living in or visiting Türkiye.
Minister Ersoy pointed to the longstanding ties between the two nations and the steady expansion of cooperation across key sectors—including tourism, culture, economy, and education. With Türkiye emerging as a preferred destination for Maldivians pursuing leisure and higher education, the presence of a resident embassy is expected to further facilitate these exchanges.
The new diplomatic mission strengthens institutional partnerships and opens additional pathways for engagement, according to the foreign ministry. It also underscored the embassy's role as a platform for exploring broader multilateral initiatives, reinforcing the country's commitment to international collaboration.
The ceremony featured a formal flag-raising event, marking the official commencement of the embassy's operations and the beginning of an expanded diplomatic presence in Türkiye. The ceremony was attended by Dr Ümmügülşhen Öztürk, Chairperson of the Maldives–Türkiye Interparliamentary Friendship Group, along with senior officials from Türkiye's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, members of the business community, representatives of Turkish media, embassy staff, and the resident Maldivian community in Ankara.