President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has decided to establish an Embassy of Maldives in Ankara, Turkey, to enhance bilateral relations and promote the political, economic, and cultural ties between the two countries.

He decided this at today’s Cabinet meeting following discussions on a paper submitted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

This was decided for various reasons, including the Maldives importing many essential commodities used in daily life and other important items from Turkey and as part of additional efforts to encourage Turkish investment in the Maldives and export Maldivian goods.

The number of Maldivian students studying in Turkey for higher education and the number of Maldivian tourists traveling to Turkey are increasing rapidly. Consular services will also be readily accessible following the establishment of the Maldives Embassy in Ankara.

Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Turkey were established on May 28, 1979.