In a significant moment of spiritual diplomacy, the Imam of Masjid Al-Nabawi, Dr Salah bin Muhammad al-Budair, met with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu at the President’s Office on Wednesday morning. The visit marks the first official visit to the Maldives by an Imam of the Prophet’s Mosque in over four decades.
President Muizzu welcomed Dr al-Budair with warmth and respect, describing the visit as a testament to the deep-rooted Islamic and fraternal ties between the Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He noted the historical significance of the moment, emphasizing that it had been 41 years since a visit of this nature last took place.
During the meeting, Dr al-Budair extended greetings and blessings on behalf of His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia. He also expressed his gratitude for the Maldives’ hospitality, and shared his hope for continued collaboration based on shared faith and values.
President Muizzu, in turn, expressed his appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s longstanding support for the Maldives, particularly in the areas of Islamic education and religious affairs. He also commended the exceptional hospitality shown to Maldivian pilgrims during their Hajj and Umrah journeys.
Both sides expressed optimism that the Imam’s visit would serve as a catalyst for even stronger spiritual and diplomatic ties between the two nations. The meeting concluded with mutual affirmations of brotherhood, unity, and a shared commitment to advancing Islamic values and cooperation.
