The Maldives and the Sultanate of Oman have held their first official political consultations in Muscat, creating a stronger platform for expanding bilateral cooperation across key economic and development sectors.
The consultations were co-chaired by Maldives Foreign Secretary Fathimath Inaya and Oman’s Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Political Affairs, Shaikh Khalifa Al-Harthi. The discussions reflected the growing engagement between the two countries and provided an opportunity to identify practical areas in which the Maldives and Oman can build closer and mutually beneficial partnerships.
During the talks, both sides explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in fisheries, the blue economy, tourism, renewable energy and cultural exchange. The delegations also exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest, highlighting the importance of maintaining regular diplomatic dialogue and closer coordination between the two countries.
Tourism featured prominently among the areas with potential for further cooperation. As one of the world’s leading island tourism destinations, the Maldives offers extensive experience in resort development, hospitality, marine tourism and high-value destination management. Closer engagement with Oman could create opportunities for knowledge-sharing, tourism investment, destination promotion and stronger links between the tourism industries of both countries. Oman’s expanding tourism sector, distinctive natural landscapes and growing hospitality infrastructure also provide scope for wider collaboration and exchange of expertise.
The consultations further highlighted opportunities in fisheries and the blue economy, sectors of particular importance to the Maldives as an island nation with a strong maritime heritage. Cooperation in sustainable fisheries, seafood processing, marine resources and related investment could support economic diversification while strengthening food security and creating new commercial opportunities.
As part of her official visit to Muscat, Foreign Secretary Inaya also met senior representatives of Oman Food Investment Holding Company, where discussions focused on food security, fisheries investment and sustainable economic initiatives. The engagement is particularly relevant to the Maldives as the Government continues to strengthen economic resilience, diversify sources of investment and explore partnerships that can contribute to long-term national development.
Foreign Secretary Inaya additionally held discussions with the leadership of Oman’s investment promotion agency to examine shared investment priorities and opportunities for strengthening economic cooperation. The discussions included the exchange of technical expertise and best practices, with both sides exploring ways to create stronger connections between investors and emerging opportunities in the two countries.
The inaugural consultations build on the growing relationship between the Maldives and Oman and complement the framework for regular political dialogue established between the two governments. The discussions in Muscat demonstrate the Government of Maldives’ continued efforts to broaden international partnerships, attract investment and develop cooperation in sectors that can directly contribute to economic growth, sustainability and greater opportunities for the Maldivian people.
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