Dr. Salim M. AlMalik, Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Organization for Education, Science, and Culture (ICESCO), met with Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq, Minister of Finance, and Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Minister of Islamic Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, on the sidelines of their participation in the annual meetings of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group, hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They discussed ways to strengthen cooperation between ICESCO and the Maldives in areas of common interest.

During the meeting, which took place on Sunday, April 28, 2024, in Riyadh, Dr. AlMalik emphasized ICESCO’s commitment to developing and enhancing cooperation with the Republic of Maldives as part of the Organization’s vision and strategic direction. He reviewed the key pillars of this vision and highlighted the initiatives, programs, and activities currently being implemented by ICESCO, focusing on building the capacities of youth and women to face future challenges, leveraging the potential of modern technology, anchoring values of coexistence and civilizational dialogue, and preserving and promoting heritage.

The Meeting also discussed proposals for programs and activities of cooperation between ICESCO and the Maldives, following the Organization’s approach of identifying the priorities and needs of its Member States and designing appropriate projects for each country.

Furthermore, the Meeting addressed the issue of the Maldives’ overdue contribution to ICESCO’s budget, with both ministers confirming their commitment to settling it as soon as possible.