The Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko, handed over a sea patrol vessel to the Maldives Customs Service on Thursday.
The Embassy of Japan said the vessel is intended to strengthen the Customs Service’s ability to combat illegal maritime trade. It forms part of the Project for the Enhancement of Ability in Maritime Safety and Security, agreed under an Exchange of Notes in March 2024. The project has a total budget of ¥260 million (around USD 1.9 million) for the patrol vessel and ¥56 million (about USD 400,000) for equipment supporting its operations.
The initiative aims to enhance maritime safety, security, and surveillance capabilities across the Maldives’ extensive sea domain, while promoting economic and social development, the embassy noted.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Ishigami said the vessel would bolster the Maldives Customs Service’s operations and reaffirmed Japan’s ongoing commitment to supporting sustainable development, good governance, and resilience in the Maldives.
The Government of Japan hopes the patrol vessel will strengthen the Customs Service’s capacity to carry out its duties effectively, contributing to the safety and prosperity of the Maldivian people.
