Discussions have been held on the possibility of establishing a representative office of the Muslim World League in the Maldives.
This was revealed by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Khaleel during a joint press conference with the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League (MWL) Sheikh Dr Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa on Tuesday.
Highlighting that it is “indeed a great honor” and a “great privilege” to welcome the MWL SG and his delegation to the Maldives, Khaleel revealed that his visit is a timely opportunity for further deepened cooperation in shared priorities that are “anchored” in the very essence of Islam; peace, tolerance and coexistence.
With this being said, the State Minister stated that Maldives recognizes and appreciates the role of MWL in cultivating the wisdom of moderate Islam all across the globe and expressed confidence that the MWL will continue to pursue effective ways to address the issues facing the Islamic nation under the guidance and leadership of the MWL SG.
Khaleel added that the MWL SG’s visit symbolizes the long-standing relations Maldives have with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and stated that the relations have grown “stronger than ever” today.
Highlighting that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia remains one of the closest development partners of Maldives, the State Minister stated that work will continue together in strengthening the close partnership by enhancing cooperation on a wide array of sectors.
With this being said, he also stated that the MWL SG’s visit further reflects the success of the incumbent administration’s foreign policy to build and enhance relations with the international community.
Prior to the presser, the state minister and MWL SG sat down for discussions on a wide range of topics including enhancing cooperation in counter terrorism, counter radicalization and issues related to Islamophobia, empowerment of women and the role of the league in addressing these issues
Today’s discussions here in the Ministry, presented us with the opportunity to further strengthen our cooperation and carry forward our efforts to promote the tolerant values of Islam in its true, moderate form”Ahmed Khaleel, State Minister for Foreign Affairs
Further, discussions also revolved around the field of capacity building, further training of religious scholars and imams and most importantly youth, with the support of the league, as well as the importance of expediting the opening of the King Salman Mosque.
Other topics of discussions included the significance of empowering women and ensuring equal participation of women in public life and the elimination of all forms of violence against women.
The pair also exchanged views on the many obstacles surfacing for the Islamic nation presently, including issues of the Palestine and Rohingya Muslims, two issues Khaleel described to be “very close to our hearts.”
Concluding his statement, Khaleel revealed that he remains committed to working closely with the MWL and gave his assurance that the Maldives will remain committed to supporting the organization in fulfilling its mission in accordance with the Makkah Charter.
On Wednesday, the MWL SG will hold a public lecture, which will be a good opportunity for the public to seek guidance on issues they require clarification on.
SG of the MWL Sheikh Dr Mohammed bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa arrived in the Maldives on an official visit on Sunday upon the invitation of the Maldivian president.
He was received at the Velana International Airport by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and senior officials at the foreign ministry.
The agenda of his trip included meetings with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Ahmed Zahir as well as the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Defense and National Security, Mariya Ahmed Didi. He was conferred the Order of the Dignified Rule of Kalaafaanu during the meeting with the president, in recognition of his valuable contributions in the promotion of moderate Islam and reflects the esteem in which the Secretary General is held by the people of Maldives.
Also known as the Rabitat al-Alam al-Islami, the MWL is an international Non-Governmental Organization which strives to clarify the true and moderate principles of Islam to the world since inception in 1962.
MWL is based in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
