Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed departed for Türkiye on Monday amid rumours of plans to purchase missiles for the Maldivian army.

The Economic Ministry said Saeed will meet international and Turkish businessmen during his visit.

He is expected to work to expand trade relations between the two countries and facilitate further trade opportunities.

On Saturday, the media reported Türkiye's decision to donate the TCG Volkan (P-343), a Dogan-class fast attack craft, to the Maldives.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) confirmed the decision and said this donation would help increase its capabilities.

According to rumours, donating an attack craft was to get the Maldivian government to purchase missiles that cost millions of dollars.

The government is facing criticism due to the rumours, especially because of the country's fiscal situation and high spending.