President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reiterated that Maldivians will be given priority when establishing relations with foreign countries, as his administration marks its two-year anniversary.

Speaking at the ceremony held to commemorate the milestone on Monday, the president said his government will continue to follow a “Maldives First” policy. He noted that the public also expects foreign relations to deliver the best outcomes for the nation, and claimed the government has been working toward that goal.

He said his administration has formed close ties with many countries, adding that embassies have been opened in key nations and non-resident ambassadors appointed to 27 countries.

The president highlighted that strengthened international relations have enabled visa-free travel arrangements with more countries.

He also stated that the Maldives will prioritize relationships with Arab and Islamic nations, noting what he described as close ties with Saudi Arabia.

He pointed to the Maldives’ inclusion in the Makkah Route Initiative as a result of this relationship.