Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has stated that he intends to hold an investment forum in neighbouring India aiming to bring in investors of the country. He made the statement during a press conference held to mark the successful conclusion of the Welcome India roadshows, to promote the Maldives as a top the mind destination in the country.
Speaking at the press conference, Faisal disclosed that discussions were held with relevant agencies to promote Maldivian tourism in India, as well as to seek investments in the sector. As such, he noted that discussions were held on finding connectivity projects before the completion of the Hanimaadhoo Airport and Addu Airport. He stated that discussions were also held on finding tourism investments for the two areas.
Furthermore, Faisal met with the Indian Minister of Tourism and the Minister of Civil Aviation on the sideline of the roadshows, where the Indian ministers assured the Maldivian government of their cooperation in boosting the Maldivian tourism industry. The Indian minsters assured that the government of India will help dispel the frustration against Maldives and increase the number of tourism arrivals from India.
Faisal stated that his intention is to hold an investment forum in India in consultation with the President and the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC). Noting that the ministry gives high importance to the Indian market, the minister added that roadshows will also be held as part of the investment forum.
The Welcome India road shows were organized by MMPRC, Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators and the National Hotels and Guesthouses Association of Maldives. The shows were held in three major cities of India: New Delhi on 30 July, Mumbai on 01 August and Bangalore on 03 August.
Speaking to the press, Managing Director of MMPRC Director Ibrahim Shiuree stated that the roadshows has dispelled the frustration against Maldives in the market. He added that more tourist arrivals from the Indian market are expected in the coming low season. Statistics of the Ministry of Tourism shows that Maldives has so far this year, welcomed more than 73,000 tourists from India.