The United Kingdom has formally handed over the two chairs used during the signing of the Maldives’ Treaty of Independence in 1965.
The Maldives gained full independence from British protection on July 26, 1965, at 10:00 local time, with an agreement signed by then Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir and British Ambassador Sir Michael Walker. The historic signing took place at the British High Commission in Ceylon (now Sri Lanka).
At a ceremony held Monday at the Foreign Ministry, British Ambassador to the Maldives Nicholas David Low presented the two original chairs, used by Nasir and Walker during the signing, to Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel.
Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir and High Commissioner of Britain to Sri Lanka Sir Michael Walker signing the declaration of Independence of the Maldives --
In a post on X, Minister Khaleel described the chairs as a powerful reminder of the day the Maldives took its first steps as a free and sovereign nation, and of the enduring historical ties between the Maldives and the United Kingdom. He expressed gratitude to Ambassador Low and the UK for their continued support and friendship.
The handover ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Foreign Ministry and Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage Adam Naseer Ibrahim.