The Government of Japan pledges USD 5.1 million to strengthen the operational capabilities of the Maldives Police Service to enhance maritime security and safety, and strengthen road traffic operations.The grant agreement was signed by Her Excellency Mrs. Takeuchi Midori, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, and His Excellency Ahmed Khaleel, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs.
Under the terms of the Exchange of Note, the Government of Japan committed a grant of six hundred and fifty million Japanese Yen (¥ 650,000,000), (approximately USD 5.1 million which is equivalent to Maldivian Rufiyaa 78.6 million) for further promoting the economic and social development of the Maldives.
The grant is intended to:
- Strengthen operational capabilities for maritime security and marine law enforcement activities in responding to crimes, investigation, detaining offenders, and suppression of drug trafficking within the maritime domain;
- Strengthen road traffic operations and investigation capabilities; and
- Enhance activities to ensure road safety, crimes, and investigation of traffic-related accidents and violations.
Equipment procured under the grant will include, laser speed guns, operational vessel, passenger craft, rubber inflatable boats, diving equipment, metal detectors and small police cars.
In April 2019, the Government of Japan handed over vehicles and related equipment (15 police vehicles, 13 patrol cars, 4 speed boats, lifejackets, lifebuoys, loudspeakers and marine receivers) in value of 250 million Japanese Yen, which is equivalent to 34.1 million Maldivian Rufiyya to Maldives Police Service. These assets were donated in line with the Exchange of Notes signed by the Government of Japan and Government of Maldives in March 2017, under the “The Economic and Social Development Programme’’.
The Government of Japan hopes that this assistance will greatly enhance public safety and security in Maldives, thereby contributing to secure economic and social development.
