News Desk
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu witnessed the swearing‑in of Bangladesh’s new leader and government, joining a select group of regional leaders at a moment of political change in one of South Asia’s largest democracies.
The president’s attendance at the ceremony — held in the National Parliament and led by Bangladesh’s President, Mohammed Shahabuddin — placed Malé among the first capitals to engage at the highest level with the incoming administration.
Rahman’s return to public office follows a sweeping victory for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party in the 12 February parliamentary elections, ending years of political turbulence marked by the 2024 uprising and his long period of self‑imposed exile.
President Muizzu’s presence, extended at the invitation of Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, underscored the Maldives’ interest in maintaining close ties with Dhaka as it enters a new political chapter. Delegations from India, Bhutan and several other nations were also in attendance, reflecting the broader regional attention on Bangladesh’s transition.
Following the ceremony, President Muizzu held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Rahman. In a message posted on X, he described the exchange as “fruitful,” offering his best wishes to the new government and expressing confidence in the continued strengthening of what he called the “close and friendly relations” between the Maldives and Bangladesh.
The two countries have maintained diplomatic relations since 1978, with cooperation spanning labour mobility, education, defence and economic development. One of the earliest milestones came in 1982, when Bangladesh provided technical and institutional support for the establishment of the Bank of Maldives — assistance that helped shape the country’s modern financial system.
President Muizzu’s visit signals Malé’s intention to remain an active participant in regional diplomacy as Bangladesh’s new leadership settles into office.
The president is scheduled to conclude his visit on 18 February, closing a brief but symbolically significant trip that highlights South Asian solidarity during a pivotal moment in Bangladesh’s political trajectory.
