Dhaka: The Maldives has expressed strong interest in hiring more healthcare professionals from Bangladesh, signaling expanded opportunities for skilled migration and bilateral cooperation in the health sector.

The issue came to the forefront during a meeting between Maldivian High Commissioner Shiuneen Rasheed and State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka on Wednesday, April 1, read a press release.

During the discussions, the High Commissioner conveyed the Maldives’ growing demand for qualified healthcare workers and its willingness to recruit professionals from Bangladesh to support its expanding health services sector. Bangladesh, known for its large pool of trained medical personnel, is seen as a key partner in meeting this demand.

The state minister welcomed the interest, highlighting overseas employment as a crucial avenue for Bangladesh’s workforce. She also requested the Maldives to recruit more skilled and semi-skilled workers from Bangladesh across sectors, further strengthening labor mobility between the two countries.

Bangladeshi migrant workers were praised for their significant contributions to the socio-economic development of the Maldives, reinforcing the importance of continued collaboration in workforce development and employment.

Beyond healthcare recruitment, both sides discussed expanding cooperation in trade, education, connectivity, and business exchanges. The resumption of direct flights between Malé and Dhaka by Maldivian from March 12, 2026, was welcomed as a key step in enhancing people-to-people and economic ties.

The meeting also touched on regional cooperation and humanitarian issues, including continued Maldivian support on the Rohingya crisis, underscoring the broader strategic partnership between the two nations.