Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has praised Saudi Arabia’s pivotal contribution to the development of the Maldives’ fisheries sector, particularly through support for essential infrastructure such as ice plants and cold storage facilities on key islands.
His comments came following the formal presentation of credentials by Yahya Hassan Alhqahtani, the newly appointed Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives, to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during a ceremony held Sunday at the President’s Office.
In a social media post welcoming Ambassador Alhqahtani, Minister Shiyam reaffirmed the Maldives’ appreciation for its growing partnership with Saudi Arabia. Describing the bilateral relationship as a “valued and growing friendship,” the Minister credited Saudi Arabia’s assistance for driving progress in fisheries infrastructure development.
“The Maldives deeply values the growing friendship between our two nations. In the fisheries sector, Saudi Arabia’s generous support has been instrumental,” Minister Shiyam stated. He emphasized the critical role that ongoing infrastructure projects play in strengthening local economies and improving supply chains.
“With the development of ice plants and cold storage facilities across key islands, we are making real progress in enhancing our fisheries value chain and supporting island communities,” he added. “We look forward to continued collaboration as we work towards shared prosperity and sustainable development.”
Following the credential ceremony, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu held discussions with Ambassador Alhqahtani on expanding bilateral cooperation. During the meeting, the President expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s ongoing support, extending special thanks to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for their leadership in strengthening ties with the Maldives.
The meeting underscored the Maldives’ commitment to deepening its partnership with Saudi Arabia, with a shared focus on advancing key economic sectors, including fisheries and broader areas of cooperation.