Maldives, Saudi Arabia Discuss Strengthening Defence Cooperation
Maldives Minister of Defence and National Service Hassan Rasheed (L) and Saudi Defence Minister His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz during a meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on June 30, 2026 | Photo: Prince Khalid’s X account
Defence cooperation, strategic partnerships and regional security were among the key issues discussed during a meeting between Maldives Minister of Defence and National Service Hassan Rasheed and Saudi Defence Minister His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz in Jeddah.
The high-level talks focused on strengthening the long-standing bilateral relationship between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, expanding defence cooperation and reviewing areas of mutual interest. The two ministers also exchanged views on regional and international developments and discussed efforts to enhance security and stability across the region.
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During the meeting yesterday, Prince Khalid reaffirmed the close ties between the two countries and pledged Saudi Arabia’s continued support for the Maldivian defence sector.
Minister of Defense and National Service, His Excellency Hassan Rasheed, has met with His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Minister of Defense of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The two leaders engaged in high-level discussions aimed at strengthening the… pic.twitter.com/SUc2eqByUf— Ministry of Defence and National Service (@MoDmv) July 1, 2026
Minister Hassan Rasheed thanked the Saudi Defence Minister for the invitation and hospitality extended during his official visit to the Kingdom.
The meeting formed part of the minister’s official visit to Saudi Arabia at the invitation of Prince Khalid.
During the visit, Hassan Rasheed also met Major General Abdullah bin Hamed Al-Qurashi, Deputy Military Commander of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC).
