Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed has stated that the 20-year National Development Masterplan will play a pivotal role in developing the Maldives to meet the needs of residents. The statement was made by the minister during the handover ceremony of the Australia's donation, supporting the development of the plan.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced the initiation of a 20-year National Development Masterplan on September 17. The president stated that the Masterplan is designed to provide a comprehensive framework for the long-term development of the Maldives, incorporating the voices and decisions of its citizens. He also mentioned that it was the vision and strategic plan for the national development of 2025-2045.
The government of Australia has donated a total of USD 609,597 to support the Maldives in creating the Masterplan. The agreement pertaining to the donation was signed by Minister Dr. Haidar and High Commissioner of Australia to the Maldives David Jessup.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Dr. Haidar expressed his sincere appreciation to the government of Australia, for its significant contribution in this transformative developmental initiative. Meanwhile, Ambassador David Jessup revealed Australia's unwavering commitment to support the Maldives, particularly in important situations. Highlighting that environmental issues are one of the mutual concerns of both, Australia and the Maldives, the ambassador expressed interest in assisting the Maldives, in its efforts to mitigate these challenges. He also disclosed that Australia will share its experience to the Maldives, when drafting the Masterplan.
The 20-year Masterplan will be drafted after conducting several comprehensive studies. Relevant information will be collected from all islands of the Maldives separately, with special plans designated to incorporate national-level decisions in certain fields. The government aims to complete the drafting of the Masterplan within a year, with legal backing provided by a specially designed law. The plan will be drafted by the President's Office, in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing, Land and Urban Development, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and other relevant authorities.