The government of Japan has donated the Maldives with USD 6.5 million to support the monitoring and surveillance of the country's maritime region and to initiate projects aimed at safeguarding the nation from natural disasters. Agreements pertaining to this aid were signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer and Ambassador of Japan to Maldives Takeuchi Midori.
Details of the aid provided by Japan are as follows:
- USD 1.87 million allocated for the development of the maritime safety and security field, including the provision of patrolling vessels to customs.
- USD 403 thousand earmarked for the purchase of necessary instruments for the vessels.
- USD 4.32 million designated to financially support projects aimed at combating natural disasters.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Moosa Zameer underscored the enduring and robust ties with Japan, affirming that the financial aid provided would significantly bolster preparations to combat natural disasters. The minister also expressed gratitude for Japan's assistance over the past 56 years.
During the event, Japan's Ambassador assured that a specialised vessel designated to monitor the maritime area of the country had been donated. She highlighted that the 25ft vessel would be equipped with the latest advancements, emphasizing its crucial role in ensuring the security of a nation surrounded entirely by water.
The signing ceremony was attended by numerous officials from the Ministry of Finance, Maldives Customs Service, and National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).