Officials of the Five Million Trees Programme have visited nurseries in Fujian and Zhangzhou cities during their ongoing visit to China.
According to the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the visit of Maldives delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Tourism and Environment Ahmed Athif, is aimed at learning about advanced technologies and techniques in China's tree planting, conservation and management.
During the visit to nurseries in Fujian and Zhangzhou cities, the delegation observed the techniques and maintenance of trees along with holding discussions on planting trees to suit the tropical climate of the Maldives, it said.
The delegation also discussed progress updates of the project to develop a modern nursery in the Maldives. In addition, the delegation discussed the design of the nursery and the trees to be planted, as well as the most suitable trees for the government's Five Million Trees Programme, the Ministry added.
The Ministry said the nursery will be built in the second phase of Hulhumale’ and will cover more than 55,000 acres, equipped with a meeting room and a laboratory.
The project is expected to begin during this year, it added.
The Five Million Trees Programme launched by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, aims to combat climate change, enhance biodiversity, and protect endangered native tree species. It was officially inaugurated on 5 June 2024, coinciding with World Environment Day, marking a significant step towards environmental conservation.
The initiative focuses on planting native tree varieties that are at risk of extinction. These include fruit trees, shade trees, flowering trees, and trees used in traditional Dhivehi medicine. Over a span of five years, the programme aims to plant a total of 90 varieties of fruit-bearing and vegetable-producing plants, significantly contributing to the country's ecological and food security.