Minister of Finance Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq announced that projects worth USD 162.37 million have been awarded over the past six months. These remarks were made during a press conference, where he provided insights into the ministry's work since the new government took office.
During the press conference, Minister Shafeeq emphasised that the present administration has placed special priority on developmental projects highlighting that 20% of the USD 162.37 million in projects awarded were specifically allocated to the health sector.
Moreover, Minister Shafeeq also shed light on the administration's diligent efforts to harmonise pay across government bodies, underscoring it to be one of the central objectives. He reported that pays have been harmonised in two government bodies according to prior plans, with 46% of pay now harmonised.
Additionally, the minister noted that the Ministry of Finance, like other state-owned bodies, is required to work closely with foreign administrations and associations to strengthen relationships with global financial institutions. He further affirmed that the Maldivian administration is currently collaborating with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, and Asian Development Bank (ADB) to gain expertise and knowledge.
Efforts to reform state-owned companies to reduce operating costs are also being carried out with the advice of these financial bodies.