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Saudi Arabia top aide in Maldivian development; Defense Minister

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is among the top contributors of the Maldivian socio-economic development of Maldives, says Defense Minister Adam Shareef Umar.

During a special gala hosted by the Ambassador of the Kingdom Of Saudi Arabia in Republic Of Maldives, Bader Ali Alkahail at Kurumba Maldives Resort in order to commemorate the 87th National Day of Saudi Arabia, Minister Umar applauded Saudi's King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud and the country for their continued effort in tackling terrorism around the world and promoting the true Islamic values and its moderate nature. Umar also said that King Salman "has always been a good friend, a brother and a key partner in the socio-economic development of Maldives."

Minister Umar praised the Saudi Ambassador Alkahail, stating the prime reason behind the two nations enjoying one of the best foreign relationship Maldives has is largely the efforts of him.

Ambassador Alkahail's close connection with the Maldivian government and authorities has paved way for a more prosperous future to both nations, according to Minister Umar.

Defense Minister Umar also said "it is a key foreign policy of this government and a personal commitment of President Yameen to strengthen the relationship with Saudi Arabia."

In his speech, the Defense Minister had noted that since 1981 following the official diplomatic ties established between the two nations, Saudi Arabia has not waned in its continuous effort in providing assistance and aid to Maldives in all areas necessary, while the country has always been a brother figure to Maldives.

Minister Umar also added that Maldives would always stand behind Saudi Arabia in its undeterred resolve in eliminating terrorism, as he said "we have constantly maintained a policy of support in international efforts in eliminating all forms of terrorism and its manifestation."

He also noted that Saudi Arabia is one of the top promoters of Islamic values and moderation while actively countering terrorism, says Defense Minister Adam Shareef Umar.

Furthermore he added that Maldives will always extended its assistance to partnering nations in the fight against terrorism.

The Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Maldives, Bader Ali Alkahail also spoke on Sunday night's special function.

In his speech Ambassador praised the solidarity between the two nations and stressed about the strategic partnership – he also noted the joint effort towards relevant socio-economic development of Maldives adding the country’s policies are in line with Saudi Arabia’s; thus working towards economic stability and prosperity.

Ambassador Alkahail, in his speech said that the "bilateral relationship has witnessed remarkable evolving at all levels" referring to the long running close bond between Saudi Arabia and Maldives.

The function was attended by Defense Minister Adam Shareef as chief guest while former president Mohamed Waheed along with Chief Justice and several dignitaries and high ranking officials from the government were present.