President Muizzu returns after Qatar visit

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu returned to the Maldives today after concluding an official visit to the State of Qatar, where he paid his respects following the passing of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.

During the visit, President Muizzu met with Qatar’s Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, at Lusail Palace in Doha. On behalf of the Government and people of the Maldives, the President conveyed condolences over the death of the former Amir, who passed away last Sunday.

The two leaders also discussed the longstanding ties between the Maldives and Qatar and reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

According to the President’s Office, the visit underscored the importance the Maldives places on its longstanding relations with Qatar and reflected the country’s appreciation for the late former Amir’s contributions to the Maldives.

Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani played a key role in strengthening Maldives-Qatar relations, including supporting the launch of Qatar Airways’ operations to the Maldives, the establishment of Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani School in Laamu Atoll, and the construction of Masjid Al Sheikh Qasim bin Al Thani in Hulhumalé. He also paid an official visit to the Maldives in 2005 during his reign as Amir of Qatar.

The Maldives and Qatar established diplomatic relations on May 26, 1984, and have maintained close bilateral ties ever since, with Qatar supporting the Maldives’ development in various sectors.