President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has officially appointed Ahmed Mahloof as the Maldives’ Ambassador to Japan, marking a new chapter in Mahloof’s public career following years in politics and government leadership roles.
The appointment was formalised on Thursday during a ceremony held at the President’s Office. The position is granted in accordance with the Foreign Service Act, which requires parliamentary approval before diplomatic designations are confirmed. Mahloof’s nomination was endorsed by the Parliament earlier this week, on 3 December.
A Political Career Spanning Multiple Administrations
Mahloof joins the Maldives’ diplomatic corps after a long and varied political trajectory. His entry into national politics began under the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) during the presidency of Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. He later transitioned to the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), where he continued to play an active role in policymaking and youth engagement.
Under the administration preceding the current government, Mahloof served as the Minister of Youth, Sports and Community Empowerment, a position that placed him at the forefront of national sports development and youth programs.
Earlier this month, Mahloof formally joined the ruling People’s National Congress (PNC), shortly before his parliamentary approval as ambassador.
Strengthening Maldives–Japan Relations
Mahloof now assumes a key diplomatic role at a time when the Maldives continues to expand bilateral cooperation with Japan, particularly in areas such as climate resilience, healthcare, infrastructure development, and disaster preparedness.
Japan has long been one of the Maldives’ most consistent development partners, and the ambassadorial appointment is expected to play a role in furthering strategic engagement between the two nations.
