News Desk
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu departed Malé on Monday evening for an official visit to Bangladesh, a trip that reflects the Maldives’ commitment to maintaining strong bilateral ties — and offers a clear nod to the new leadership taking shape in Dhaka.
The visit comes at the invitation of Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, who will oversee the oath‑taking of the country’s new government on 17 February. President Muizzu is attending the ceremony at the highest level, underscoring Malé’s intent to deepen relations with a close South Asian partner now led by a new generation of political leadership.
The visit, scheduled from 16 to 18 February, will also include a meeting with the newly elected Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman.
Beyond political ties, the Maldives and Bangladesh share a history of practical cooperation. One of the most notable early examples was the establishment of the Bank of Maldives in 1982, for which Bangladesh provided key technical and institutional support during its formative years. The collaboration helped lay the foundations for what would become the Maldives’ leading national financial institution — a reminder that the relationship between the two countries has long extended beyond diplomacy into nation‑building.
Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Bangladesh were formally established on 22 September 1978, and the current moment carries a renewed sense of momentum, with both governments positioning the relationship around shared development priorities and regional stability.
