The Republic of Maldives and the Republic of 
Benin formalised diplomatic relations.
During the official ceremony at the Permanent Mission of the Maldives, a Joint Communiqué formalizing diplomatic relations between the two countries was signed by H.E. Mr Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed, Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations and H.E Jean-Francis Zinsou representing the Government of Benin.
Benin is a tropical, sub-Saharan nation in West Africa and harbors a 
Southern coastline on the Bight of Benin. There is a large Muslim community in the country, making it a member to the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Benin is also active in the African Union.
The Republic of Benin was formed in 1991 creating a presidential representative democratic republic within a multiparty election framework. The 2006 election which won international praise for its high standards in fairness, was won by Dr. Thomas Yayi Boni who is heading the Beninois government as President.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Ghafoor, who had previously visited Benin, spoke of the desire of the Maldives to reach out and build partnerships in Africa. He underlined the importance of cooperation of the Maldives and Benin as the two countries shared common visions and challenges. Ambassador Zinsou said that Benin had previously worked closely with the Maldives and pledged that his government will continue to do so.
Benin is the 158th country to establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives.
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