The Governments of Maldives and Japan have signed an Exchange of Notes formalizing Japan’s provision of two harbor crafts to strengthen the operational capacity of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard.
The agreement, signed under Japan’s Economic and Social Development Programme, amounts to 400 million Japanese Yen (approximately USD 2.8 million). The signing ceremony took place in Malé, with Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel and Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives Ishigami Rumiko representing their respective governments.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Khaleel expressed gratitude for Japan’s consistent support to the Maldives, stating that the addition of the new vessels will enhance the Coast Guard’s capacity in search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, and coastal protection.
He further noted that the partnership is a reflection of both nations’ shared commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, and acknowledged Japan’s significant role in supporting the Maldives' development and maritime security.
Welcoming Japan’s decision to appoint a Defence Attaché to the Maldives, the Minister also voiced optimism for continued collaboration in the fields of defence and security.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Finance and Planning, and the Embassy of Japan were present at the signing ceremony.
The agreement, signed under Japan’s Economic and Social Development Programme, amounts to 400 million Japanese Yen (approximately USD 2.8 million). The signing ceremony took place in Malé, with Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel and Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives Ishigami Rumiko representing their respective governments.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Khaleel expressed gratitude for Japan’s consistent support to the Maldives, stating that the addition of the new vessels will enhance the Coast Guard’s capacity in search and rescue operations, maritime law enforcement, and coastal protection.
He further noted that the partnership is a reflection of both nations’ shared commitment to a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, and acknowledged Japan’s significant role in supporting the Maldives' development and maritime security.
Welcoming Japan’s decision to appoint a Defence Attaché to the Maldives, the Minister also voiced optimism for continued collaboration in the fields of defence and security.
Senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Finance and Planning, and the Embassy of Japan were present at the signing ceremony.
