Maldives and Japan are preparing to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2027, as the two countries continue efforts to strengthen their longstanding partnership.
Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam attended a reception hosted by the Embassy of Japan in the Maldives to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the establishment of Japan’s resident diplomatic mission in the Maldives.
Iruthisham commended the Embassy of Japan and Ambassador Takeuchi for their role in strengthening friendship and mutual understanding between the two countries, bringing the Maldivian and Japanese communities closer and developing partnerships with Maldivian institutions.
“As the Maldives and Japan prepare to mark 60 years of diplomatic relations in 2027, I look forward to celebrating this milestone and further advancing our longstanding partnership and development cooperation,” Iruthisham said.
Japan and the Maldives established diplomatic relations in 1967, with 2027 marking six decades of formal ties between the two countries.
As part of preparations for the anniversary, Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched a public competition in September to select an official logo for the 60th anniversary celebrations. The competition was open to citizens of both Japan and the Maldives, regardless of age or place of residence.
The deadline for submissions was September 30, 2026, meaning the competition has now closed. The Japanese Foreign Ministry said the selected design is expected to be announced around mid-December, subject to change.
The winning design will be used for events and activities marking the 60th anniversary and promoting friendship between Japan and the Maldives. The competition rules state that the winning designer will not receive prize money or other compensation, while the rights to the selected logo will belong to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The anniversary is expected to feature a series of events aimed at commemorating six decades of diplomatic relations and further strengthening cooperation between the Maldives and Japan.
