The US Government has decided to extend a grant facility of USD 9.75 million to Maldives. The decision of the US Government was made during a meeting held by Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
During the meeting, discussions were held in issues of mutual interest. In this regard, Secretary Mike Pompeo and Minister Shahid discussed deepening bilateral ties between the US and Maldives, and their shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Moreover, Foreign Minister Shahid underscored the importance of reform efforts of the administration to the vitality of democracy and future prosperity of Maldives.
Meanwhile, Secretary Pompeo expressed strong support for the US-Maldives partnership, announcing the intent of the State Department to work with Congress to provide 9.75 million US dollars in additional assistance for Maldives. Pompeo also hailed the signing of a memorandum of understanding to enhance aviation security and an intent by USAID to facilitate sustained collaboration with Maldives.
Furthermore, Secretary Pompeo also noted that the US is cooperating with Maldives to share best practices in the areas of debt strategy, public financial management and combatting financial crimes. The secretary welcomed the commitment of Maldives to judicial reform, transparency, and rule of law.