Diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Turkey were established on 28 May 1979. 

Over the past four decades, relations of friendship and understanding between the two countries have grown from strength to strength. Maldives and Türkiye have developed a close bilateral relationship, built on the foundations of Islamic solidarity, mutual respect for the sovereignty and independence of both countries, and a view towards enhancing cooperation towards addressing wider global issues that affect both countries.

Maldives and Türkiye have signed a number of Agreements/Memorandums of Understanding related to enhancing cooperation in fields such as disaster risk management, security cooperation and human resource development.

With shifts in global geopolitics, and increasing threats to global peace and security and to the Muslim Ummah, it is more important now than ever before to increase cooperation with countries such as Türkiye, that share similar policies and Islamic values as the Maldives.

The decision to establish a resident Embassy of the Republic of Maldives in Ankara, Türkiye was made by His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on 10 December 2023 and the directive to formally establish the Embassy was issued by the President’s Office on 13 February 2024. Under this directive the Embassy of the Republic of Maldives in the Republic of Türkiye was established on 7 May 2024 in the capital city of Ankara. The Embassy of Türkiye to the Republic of Maldives is based in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The Government of Maldives aims to further enhance diplomatic, trade, and cultural ties with Türkiye. Maldives attaches great importance to its relationship with Türkiye, and hopes that bilateral cooperation can move from strength to strength.