The Government of Japan has granted an aid of USD 4.6 million to Maldives to acquire vessels to be utilised by Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) in emergency situations.
At the side-lines of the Maldives Partnership Forum, the agreement was signed by Ambassador of Japan to Maldives Keiko Yanai and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives Abdulla Shahid. From the funds provided by Japan, Maldives will purchase a landing craft and a fire extinguishing vessel.
Furthermore, a second agreement, also worth USD 4.6 million was signed at the ceremony. As per the agreement, funds provided by Japan would finance socio-development of Maldives.
The Government of Japan has also assured of more assistance for Maldives. In this regard, Special Advisor of the Prime Minister of Japan Kentaro Sonoura revealed assistance would be provided for Maldives to establish a desalination facility in Hulhumale’ phase 2, with more assistance pledge to further develop the areas related to the export of fish.
The special advisor revealed relations between the two countries would be further boosted in 3 key areas, including blue economy, urban development and establishing a peaceful society.
Japan would also establish an early tsunami warning system and a digital terrestrial television broadcasting network in Maldives. Japan would also dispatch a financial expert to Maldives to try and solve the current debt issues.