Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia on Monday praised the Maldives for its strong position on Palestine as both nations agreed to enhance their collaboration in the defense, technology, and solar sectors. The agreement was reached during a meeting between Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Kuala Lumpur. According to Anadolu Agency, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim commended the Maldives for its 'outstanding' stance on Palestine, highlighting the country's 'courageous decision' to prohibit entry to individuals holding Israeli passports. This move follows the recent ratification of a third amendment to the Maldives immigration act, passed by the People's Majlis on April 15, which blocks Israeli passport holders from entering the Maldives. Anwar emphasized that Malaysia has not recognized Israel since gaining independence, citing Israel's refusal to respect human rights and international commitments, as well as its actions in Palestine, particularly in Gaza. During a televised news conference, Anwar expressed high respect for President Muizzu's principled stance, noting that both nations share similar sentiments on the Palestinian issue. During his four-day visit to Malaysia, President Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives' unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, advocating for a sovereign Palestinian state based on pre-1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital. The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with the Health Ministry reporting at least 52,243 Palestinian deaths since October 2023. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice. On the bilateral front, Prime Minister Anwar highlighted new areas for collaboration between Malaysia and the Maldives, including floating solar technology, defense, and digital technology. He stressed that the 'areas of cooperation' are vast and promising. President Muizzu noted that the discussions focused on enhancing development cooperation and fostering connections between the two na tions. The leaders exchanged memoranda of understanding on tourism, sports, health, and agreed on bilateral consultations and diplomatic training. Muizzu expressed commitment to strengthening relations and working towards the betterment of both countries in a statement posted on X.