Ministry of Foreign Affairs

What secrets do the curved roofs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs whisper? Here, on Boduthakurufaanu Magu in Malé, the Fathulla Jameel Building stands as a testament to the Maldives’ long history of international relations. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, housed within these distinctive curved roofs, has witnessed the ebb and flow of global tides since its inception in 1932. Originally called the Vuzarat Al-Kharijiyya, the Ministry has undergone several name changes, reflecting the evolving political landscape of the Maldives. It has seen the nation transition from a British Protectorate to an independent republic and back again, a journey mirrored by the Ministry’s own transformations from department to ministry and back. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has steered the Maldives through two World Wars, economic shifts, and the complexities of a changing world. It has been the guardian of the Maldives’ interests, ensuring its voice is heard on the international stage. The Ministry’s current home, the Fathulla Jameel Building, is a striking symbol of this enduring commitment to diplomacy. Its sailboat-like structure, a nod to the Maldives’ seafaring heritage, speaks to the nation’s navigation of global currents. This iconic building, a gift from the People’s Republic of China, opened in 2005. It was later renamed in 2021 to honor Uz. Fathulla Jameel, the longest-serving Foreign Minister of the Maldives. He served with distinction for an impressive 27 years, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s foreign policy. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to be the frontline of the Maldives’ international engagement, charting the course for its future in the world.