The Republic of Maldives and the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe have formally established diplomatic relations today.

The Joint Communiqué formalising diplomatic relations between the two countries was signed on behalf of the Government of Maldives by Her Excellency Thilmeeza Hussain, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Maldives to the United Nations and on behalf of the Government of São Tomé and Príncipe by Mr. Alcínio Cravid e Silva, Chargé d'Affaires a.i./Deputy Permanent Representative of the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe to the United Nations.

As comparatively small nations in the international arena, the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and São Tomé and Príncipe marks a historic opening for cooperation connecting the peoples of the two countries in all areas of mutual interest.

The Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe is the 180th country to establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives.

São Tomé and Príncipe, an African island nation close to the equator, is part of a volcano chain featuring striking rock and coral formations, rainforests and beaches.