President Dr Mohamed Muizzu hosted a special luncheon on Monday at Hotel Jen for the visiting Palestinian Under-17 national football team, who are currently in the Maldives for a training camp.
The event was also attended by First Lady Sajida Mohamed, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu, Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Ahmed Thoriq, and senior government officials. The gathering underscored the Maldives’ continued solidarity and unwavering support for Palestine.
During the luncheon, the young footballers and their officials expressed deep gratitude to the Maldivian government and people for offering them a safe haven for their 10-day training camp. With football activities severely affected in their homeland due to ongoing conflict, the opportunity to train in the Maldives provided essential preparation for their upcoming Under-17 Asian Cup qualifiers in India later this month.
Team manager Mohamed Juma Sulaiman spoke emotionally about the warm welcome they received, describing an “indescribable feeling” as the team saw Palestinian flags displayed upon arrival at Velana International Airport. He highlighted that the team chose the Maldives because of the closeness, compassion, and longstanding hospitality shown by Maldivians toward Palestine.
Players also shared their appreciation, noting their happiness at being able to train in a peaceful, scenic environment with well-organised arrangements. Strengthening the bond between the two nations’ football communities, the Palestinian squad played two friendly matches against the Maldives U-17 national team during their stay.
In an additional gesture of support, the Football Association of Maldives sold special souvenir tickets for the friendly matches, with proceeds dedicated to aiding Palestinian football.