In a significant development during his official visit to Oman, Maldives’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, signed two important agreements aimed at enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations. The agreements were formalized following a meeting with Oman’s Foreign Minister, Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin Hamood Albusaidi.
The first agreement outlines a Mutual Visa Exemption for holders of diplomatic, special, service, and official passports, while the second is a Memorandum of Understanding focused on Political Consultations. Currently, Maldivians can travel to Oman without a visa only under specific conditions, such as holding visas for designated countries.
During the discussions, Minister Khaleel emphasized the Maldives government’s request for visa-free travel to Oman for the general public, which has been formally submitted to the Omani government. The two foreign ministers also explored the potential for convening the inaugural round of political consultations at a mutually agreed time.
Their conversation covered a broad spectrum of topics aimed at strengthening the enduring bilateral partnership, which has flourished for over four decades. Key areas of cooperation discussed included trade, tourism, education, and the promotion of investment.
Additionally, Minister Khaleel met with Oman’s Finance Minister, Sultan bin Salim bin Saeed Al Habsi, to discuss various investment opportunities within the Maldives. The meeting allowed both parties to reflect on the Maldives’ development policies alongside strategies to bolster bilateral relations.
Further, President Khaleel had a productive exchange with Sayyed Asaad bin Tariq Al Said, Oman’s Deputy Prime Minister for International Relations and Cooperation Affairs. In this meeting, he conveyed appreciation for the longstanding ties between the Maldives and Oman, highlighting Oman’s generous support during times of crisis. The discussions also touched on deepening economic cooperation, particularly in investment, trade, tourism, and fisheries, which would elevate the bilateral partnership to new heights.
