Qatar is a key partner in the Maldives’ tourism and economic development, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has said.
Speaking during a special PSM News coverage on the passing of former Amir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the State Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Hameed noted the longstanding close ties between the two countries, and said Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani played a major role in strengthening relations with the Maldives and supporting its development.
Highlighting assistance by Qatar over the years, the State Minister said Qatar Airways began flying to the Maldives at the instruction of Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, after then-Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom made a request to the Amir on a visit to Qatar. At the time, Qatar Airways was a relatively small airline and did not operate wide-body aircraft. However, the Amir said he wanted the service to begin regardless of profitability, stating that he did not want to disappoint a fellow Muslim nation. Abdulla described the launch of Qatar Airways’ Maldives route as a symbol of the strong relationship between the two countries.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Qatar Airways continued operating flights to the Maldives when many other airlines suspended services. The Foreign Ministry noted that this helped transport essential medicines and supplies during the pandemic. Qatar Airways is now a major aviation partner for the Maldives, currently operating flights six days a week and connecting the country to destinations worldwide.
Qatar has supported the Maldives in education and business during Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani’s reign. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani also visited the Maldives during his reign, a reflection of the close ties between the two countries. Qatar has also supported Palestine, and their advocacy for Palestine is exemplary for other countries.
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani is credited with transforming Qatar by expanding its tourism industry, developing its natural gas and energy sector, establishing Al Jazeera as a globally influential news network, and helping establish Qatar as one of the most influential countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).