UK gifts historic chairs used in the 1965 Independence signing ceremony to Maldivian government

The two chairs used during the signing ceremony of the Maldives' Independence Agreement on July 26, 1965, have been gifted by the United Kingdom to the Maldivian Government.

The chairs were formally handed over on behalf of the UK by Ambassador Nicholas David Lo. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdulla Khaleel, accepted the chairs on behalf of the Maldives. Minister of Heritage, Adam Naseer Ibrahim, also attended the ceremony.

Speaking at the ceremony, Foreign Minister Khaleel highlighted the symbolic significance of the chairs.

The Minister stated that the chairs symbolize the moment the Maldives took its first step as a sovereign, independent nation. He added that such a meaningful gift underscores the long-standing friendly and close relationship between the two nations.

UK Ambassador Nicholas Lo, in his speech, assured that efforts would be made to further strengthen the enduring close relationship between the Maldives and the UK. He also highlighted the historical ties between the two countries and spoke about the ongoing cooperation across various sectors.