PUTRAJAYA, 28 April - Maldives President, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, expressed his appreciation for the friendly relations between the Maldives and Malaysia, and invited Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to make an official visit to the Maldives in the near future.

The invitation was extended by Muizzu during a joint press conference with Anwar, here, today, in conjunction with his four-day official visit to Malaysia which began yesterday.

"I am honored to extend an invitation to the Prime Minister (Anwar Ibrahim) for an official visit to the Maldives. We eagerly anticipate your visit with the hope that it will further strengthen our bilateral relations and bring about meaningful progress," he said.

"The Maldives will remain a true friend of Malaysia, committed to our shared vision of development, peace and stability," Muizzu said.

Both countries also agreed to strengthen partnerships, including through high-level exchanges and engagements that will enrich mutual understanding and reinforce existing ties.

Malaysia and the Maldives also pledged to continue close cooperation on regional issues, climate change, and Islamic solidarity.

Muizzu also expressed his full support for Malaysia's chairmanship of ASEAN this year, as an important step in strengthening regional and global ties.