The Ministry of Foreign Affairs today held a special ceremony to receive the original chairs used during the Signing of the Maldives’ Independence Agreement on 26 July 1965—an iconic moment that marked the nation’s transition to full sovereignty.
The chairs were formally handed over by His Excellency Nicholas David Low, High Commissioner of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, to the Maldives. They were received on behalf of the Maldivian Government by His Excellency Dr Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs, in the presence of His Excellency Adam Naseer Ibrahim, Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage.
Speaking at the event, Minister Dr Khaleel reflected on the profound symbolic value of the artefacts, describing them as tangible reminders of the Maldives’ journey to independence. He thanked the Government of the United Kingdom for returning the historic items, noting that the gesture underscores the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
High Commissioner Nicholas Low emphasised the UK’s continued commitment to deepening Maldives-UK relations, reaffirming shared values, historical ties, and collaboration across multiple sectors.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and members of the British High Commission attended the ceremony.
