The government of Maldives has begun efforts to bring medical supplies from India following an interruption due to restrictions imposed to contain the COVID-19 situation in India.
Maldives has faced challenges in bringing medicine items from 5 Indian cities due to the restrictions imposed by the government of India to control the spread of the virus in the country. Transportation within and out of India has been completely halted due to the restrictions. The items were ordered by State Trading Organisation (STO).
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives Abdulla Shahid and Minister of External Affairs of India Dr. S. Jaishankar has discussed the matter over a phone call. During the phone call, Minister Jaishankar assured Minister Shahid of the continued supply of essential commodities, including rice, flour and sugar, as well as the provision of medicines and other items to Maldives during this time of crisis.
India has donated 5 tonnes of medical supplies to Maldives, which can be used for 3 months.