President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu stated today that the Maldives and Malaysia have agreed to increase cooperation in the field of halal tourism.

Speaking at the joint press statement following official discussions held during Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's current official visit to the Maldives, the President stated that tourism serves as a "bridge" between the peoples of the two countries, and that both nations agreed to increase cooperation in advancing tourism.

"We agreed to increase cooperation in advancing tourism, (as well as increasing cooperation in advancing) the halal industry, cultural industry, and Muslim-friendly travel," the President stated.

He noted that Malaysia and the Maldives will also work together to increase the number of tourists traveling from one country to the other. The President further stated that both nations will collaborate to enhance people-to-people ties and promote eco-tourism.

During the discussions, it was also agreed to work together on a broader scale in trade and economic sectors and to commence necessary discussions to establish a preferential trade agreement, he said.

If such an agreement can be established, it will generate additional opportunities for the businesses of both countries, he added.

"I also invited the Malaysian government and its businesses to explore the investment opportunities available in the Maldives," the President stated.

The specific areas where he invited exploration of investment opportunities are renewable energy, digital infrastructure, and Islamic financing.