Maldives Signs MMDC Charter to Strengthen Maritime Security Cooperation

The Maldives has signed the Charter of the Multinational Maritime Defense Coalition (MMDC), joining a Saudi-led initiative aimed at strengthening cooperation among member states to enhance maritime security and safeguard freedom of navigation.

Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam witnessed the signing of the Charter on Wednesday, marking the Maldives’ participation in the initiative focused on addressing shared maritime security concerns and protecting international sea lanes.

Saudi Arabia announced the initiative in July following growing security concerns in the Red Sea and surrounding waterways. The proposed coalition is intended to strengthen collective efforts to counter threats to commercial shipping, energy routes and maritime infrastructure, particularly around the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

The initiative seeks to establish a framework for cooperation between participating countries, including arrangements for its organisational structure, command and control mechanisms, operational procedures and future activities. Saudi Arabia is designated as the founding and leading state and will host the coalition’s headquarters.

The Maldives had previously expressed concern over threats to maritime navigation in the Red Sea. In July, the Maldivian government condemned the targeting of a Saudi vessel by the Houthi group, describing attacks on shipping as a threat to the freedom, safety and security of international navigation. The government also highlighted the strategic importance of the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait to global energy supplies, trade and regional stability.

An international meeting held in Riyadh in July brought together representatives from 43 countries and the European Union to discuss the proposed coalition. Fourteen countries subsequently issued a joint declaration supporting the initiative, while other participating countries began their national procedures to join.

The Maldives’ signing comes as the country continues to emphasise the importance of maritime security and the protection of freedom of navigation, which are particularly significant for an archipelagic nation whose economy and connectivity depend heavily on secure sea routes.

Iruthisham was appointed Foreign Minister in April 2026 and previously served as the Maldives’ High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and ambassador to several European countries. She was also elected Second Vice President of the 34th International Maritime Organization General Assembly in 2025.