Vietnam recognized the independence of Maldives on 21 August 1965 and established diplomatic relations with Maldives on 18 June 1975.
The two countries have enjoyed a fine relationship but without remarkable cooperation. Before 1982, Vietnam Ambassador in Colombo (Srilanka) was accredited to Maldives and this assignment was transferred to our Ambassador in India since we closed Vietnam Embassy in Colombo. Letters of congratulation are often exchanged between leaders of the two countries on the occasions of the national celebrations. Leaders of Vietnam sent letters of condolences to Maldives’ leaders when the earthquake and tsunami happened in Maldives in December 2004.
When our Ambassador in India who was accredited to Maldives presented letter of credentials to the President of Maldives, the President expressed his admiration to the Vietnamese people’s spirit to fight for independence and to Vietnam’s achievements in foreign relations and renovation. The Minister of Agriculture and Fishery of Maldives suggested Vietnam share experience in botanical protection. President of Maldives Mr. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom sent a letter of condolences to Vietnam people on the collapse of Can Tho Bridge.

October, 2007