The Government of Saudi Arabia and the Government of UAE have expressed hope for a peaceful solution to the current situation, without any external interference and within the Maldivian Constitution.
A joint statement issued conveyed that the two countries are following the current events in Maldives and have expressed concerns about the disturbances caused to the security and stability of the Maldives. The statement noted the current situation must be solved through internal political dialogue between the parties concerned. The two countries welcome any positive steps in this context and that they renew the support in matters pertaining to the security and stability of the Maldives and its citizens, further noted the statement.
Furthermore, as part of the support of Saudi Arabia and UAE, the Saudi Fund for Development and the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development has pledged USD 160 million in support of the Maldives for its development projects including the airport development and fisheries sector of the Maldives.
In response to the statement, the Government of Maldives expressed its gratitude for the close relationship it shares with Governments of Saudi Arabia and UAE. The Maldivian Government also appreciated the assistance provided to development initiatives and expressed gratitude to Saudi Arabia and UAE for recognising the political issues need to be solved internally within the constitutional framework and sovereignty.