The Maldives and Japan have solidified their bilateral relationship with the signing of four Exchange of Notes, marking a significant milestone in cooperation between the two nations. The signing ceremony, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, was attended by Maldivian Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and the Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives, Takeuchi Midori.
The agreements focus on enhancing maritime security, disaster preparedness, and customs capabilities:
- Provision of Customs Patrol Craft: Japan will provide funding under its Economic Cooperation Grant Act for a customs patrol vessel.
- Maritime Safety and Security Enhancement: A grant of 260 million Japanese Yen (USD 1.7 million) will bolster the Maldives’ maritime safety and security measures.
- Disaster Response Capacity: Japan will provide 600 million Japanese Yen (USD 3.9 million) to the National Disaster Management Authority to strengthen community-level disaster response.
- Customs Equipment Support: A grant of 56 million Japanese Yen (USD 369,986) will equip the Maldives Customs Service to enhance patrol vessel operations.
Minister Zameer expressed gratitude for Japan’s continued support in driving the Maldives’ socio-economic advancement. He acknowledged Japan’s position as a vital development partner and reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to further strengthening the diplomatic relationship.
The signing ceremony was witnessed by senior officials from the Maldives’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Maldives Customs Service, National Disaster Management Authority, and the Japanese Embassy.
