President Dr Mohamed Muizzu hosted a luncheon for the visiting Palestinian Under-17 national football in Hotel Jen on Monday.
The luncheon, also attended by First Lady Sajida Mohamed, the Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation, Abdulla Rafiu, and Football Association of Maldives (FAM) President Ahmed Thoriq alongside senior government officials served to underscore the Maldives' steadfast support for Palestine.
The young footballers and their officials expressed profound gratitude to the Maldivian government and people for providing them with a safe haven for a 10-day training camp. With football rendered nearly impossible in their homeland due to the ongoing conflict, the camp offered invaluable preparation for their upcoming Under-17 Asian Cup qualifiers in India later this month.
Team manager Mohamed Juma Sulaiman conveyed the team's deep emotional response to their welcome, conveying the "indescribable feeling" of seeing Palestinian flags flying upon their arrival at Velana International Airport (VIA).
He highlighted the significance of the hospitality, stating the team was drawn to the Maldives because of the closeness and hospitality the Maldivians have always showed towards Palestine.
Players echoed this sentiment, expressing their happiness with the opportunity to train in a picturesque environment amid well-organised hospitality. During their stay, the team strengthened bonds of friendship by playing two friendly matches against the Maldives U-17 national team. In a further show of support, the FAM sold special souvenir tickets for these matches to generate funds in aid of Palestinian football.