Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman has delivered warm greetings from Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to Maldivian President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, while expressing gratitude for his presence at the swearing-in ceremony of Bangladesh’s newly elected government in February.

During the meeting, Dr Khalilur also conveyed sincere appreciation to President Muizzu for endorsing his candidature for the Presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly.

According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued on Sunday, Dr Khalilur—who is currently visiting Malé—underlined the BNP-led government’s strategic priority to foster robust bilateral partnerships rooted in mutual respect and shared interests under its "Bangladesh First" diplomatic framework.

The Foreign Minister landed in Malé on Saturday afternoon to attend the 61st Independence Day celebrations of the Republic of Maldives as a special guest. He was received at the airport by Maldivian Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam.

Following his arrival, Dr Khalilur paid a courtesy call on President Muizzu at the President's Office in the capital. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the current state of relations between Bangladesh and the Maldives, emphasizing the need to advance bilateral ties through pragmatic, mutually beneficial initiatives.

They also deliberated on global and regional affairs, placing special emphasis on reviving SAARC.

Expressing satisfaction over the substantial Bangladeshi workforce and professionals employed in the island nation, Dr Khalilur highlighted their ongoing role in regional economic cooperation, while President Muizzu warmly acknowledged their valuable contributions to the Maldivian economy.

The bilateral meeting was attended by Maldivian Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam, Minister of Homeland Security Ali Ihusaan, and Bangladesh High Commissioner to the Maldives Dr. Md. Nazmul Islam.

President Muizzu subsequently hosted a high tea reception honoring the visiting Bangladeshi diplomat, attended by Maldivian Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, cabinet ministers, and senior government dignitaries.

In the evening, Dr Khalilur participated in a diplomatic outreach event hosted by Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam, where he engaged in discussions with cabinet ministers, resident ambassadors, and representatives of international organizations accredited to the Maldives.

With Inputs from UNB