Jumhooree Party (JP) has started talks with the Maldives Reform Movement (MRM) to form a coalition.

MRM's leadership, including Party president Faris Maumoon, visited JP headquarters to hold discussions with the party on Tuesday.

Speaking to press after the meeting, JP's Deputy Leader Ameen Ibrahim stated that both parties discussed ways to move forward, taking into consideration the similarities and differences in opinions. Ameen added that JP has a history of working together with MRM.

Ameen further added that backing a single candidate that all opposition parties can agree on is a good initiative for the election. However, since opposition has failed to agree on such a candidate, JP is now in discussions to lead the opposition.

"JP candidate has been announced and presented with the presidential ticket. We hope that other parties will work together with us. We will talk about moving forward together and shaping our thinking so that we align our beliefs," Ameen said.

He said the JD has also prepared its manifesto but will continue to make necessary changes in the light of discussions with the parties.

MRM initiated talks with the JP while the party is in preparation to nominate Faris Maumoon for the presidential race. However, Faris is yet to say anything about contesting in the presidential election. However, he also confirmed that preparations are underway.

After the meeting, Faris said that the talks with the JP today showed a very promising scenario.

"There is a very promising scenario in the discussions today. The first priority is to bring about the reforms that the people of Maldives want," Faris explained.

MRM, The Democrats and the MNP have agreed to field a common candidate for the September 9 presidential election.