Maldives News Bulletin Volume 115

Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer has expressed confidence in stronger bilateral relations with Bahrain, after concluding his official visit to the country.

Concluding his four-day trip to Bahrain, Foreign Minister Zameer stated that it was an honour to be given the opportunity to meet with Bahrain’s Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, who also serves as the Prime Minister. The Minister revealed that discussions were held with the prime minister of Bahrain, and several other high-profile dignitaries, which will fortify the existing ties between the two countries. During the meeting with Bahrain’s prime minister, Minister Zameer presented a letter from President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, addressed to the King of Bahrain Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. Thanking the leadership and the government of Bahrain for the closeness accorded to the Maldives throughout the past few decades, the Minister and Bahrain’s Prime Minister discussed ways to deepen existing bilateral ties between both countries. They also deliberated on international issues of mutual interest such as the global economic situation, climate change and the environment.

Minister Zameer also met his counterpart, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Bahrain Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. The two Ministers reflected on the long-standing bonds of friendship and cooperation between the Maldives and Bahrain. The discussions focused on strengthening the existing bilateral partnership between the two countries and prospects for enhancing economic cooperation.

Furthermore, Minister Zameer also met with Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa. The discussions focused on investment promotion, trade and tourism between the two countries. The ministers also discussed the government’s fiscal and development policies and prospects for cooperation with Bahrain in the Maldives’ development journey

Additionally, Minister Zameer met with the senior officials of the Bahrain Economic Development Board. At the meeting, the minister and members of the board exchanged their views and opinions on B2B engagements and prospects for economic diversification. The minister also briefed the members on the investment opportunities available in the Maldives.

Before concluding his visit, Minister Zameer also met with the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Maitham Abdulla and senior members of Bahrain Telecommunications Company (Batelco). Batelco is the leadingintegrated communications’ provider in Bahrain. Speaking at the meeting, the Minister extended his sincere appreciation to Batelco, for the pivotal role they play in enhancing connectivity across the Maldives. Their discussions also pertained to strengthening bilateral cooperation in the field of telecommunication, enhance connectivity and improve cybersecurity.

^{SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs}

On the occasion of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan’s Independence Day, His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu conveyed greetings and good wishes to Pakistan’s President, His Excellency Asif Ali Zardari, and Prime Minister, His Excellency Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif.

In separate letters sent to the President and Prime Minister, President Dr Muizzu extended warm felicitations to the leaders, the government and the people of Pakistan. President Dr Muizzu expressed confidence that the close relations between the Maldives and Pakistan will continue to grow for the socioeconomic development of the two brotherly countries.

The President also extended his best wishes for the President and Prime Minister’s good health and well-being, as well as for further progress and prosperity for the people of Pakistan.

Earlier today, the President posted a message on social media, sending greetings on the occasion of the Independence Day of Pakistan.

^{SOURCE : The President’s Office}

Minister of Finance Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq has assured that citizens will not bear the burden of the measures taken to enhance state revenue. He made the statement during a session with the Parliamentary Public Accounts Committee.

Speaking at the committee meeting held to discuss the Government’s medium-term fiscal and debt policy for 2025-2027, Minister Dr Shafeeq said that the Government has no plans to increase taxes such as Goods and Services Tax (GST), Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST), Business Profit Tax (BPT), or withholding tax.

Instead of raising tax rates, he said that the Government intends to broaden the tax base, including increasing import duties on certain harmful items.

Regarding the substantial debt of the Maldives, Minister Dr Shafeeq expressed concern over the need to boost revenue to manage debt repayments. He noted that 28 percent of the current income is allocated to debt interest, which hampers the government’s ability to fund projects and services. As such, he highlighted ongoing efforts to address the debts.

Moreover, Minister Dr Shafeeq outlined the Government’s commitment to increasing revenue and stabilising the economy. He also pointed to the Sovereign Development Fund (SDF) as a key part of this strategy, with USD 65 million deposited into the fund as of July this year.

^{SOURCE : PSM}

Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu has stated the government will not discriminate in the implementation of any projects in the sports sector. The statement was made by the Minister in response to queries from some Parliamentarians.

Addressing the MPs, Minister Rafiu shed light on the numerous stalled projects which were launched during the previous administration. The Minister emphasised the government’s commitment to prioritising the completion of these projects and disclosed that funding for some has already been secured.

Emphasising that sports unites all individuals, Minister Rafiu stated that the government’s actions are also in line with the spirit of sports. As such, the Minister assured that project implementation will be equitable, irrespective of the island or region. Additionally, Minister Rafiu discussed the challenges encountered in project execution, noting that some projects were initiated at year-end due to budget constraints. The Minister highlighted the government’s plan to advance these projects at a scheduled pace and recommended including at least 50 percent of the minimum project cost in future budgets

^{SOURCE : PSM}

On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes to India’s President, Her Excellency Droupadi Murmu, and Prime Minister, His Excellency Narendra Modi.

In separate letters sent to the Prime Minister and President of India, President Dr Muizzu stated that India continues to be an invaluable partner in the development of the Maldives. The long-standing partnership, based on mutual respect and trust, has evolved into a close and cooperative friendship that has been instrumental in advancing the development and prosperity of the Maldives.

In his messages, President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed the Government of Maldives’ full commitment to strengthening the historic relations between the two countries.

President Dr Muizzu also extended his best wishes for the President and Prime Minister’s good health and well-being, as well as for further progress and prosperity for the people of India. Earlier today, the President posted a message on social media, sending greetings on the occasion of the Independence Day of India.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu constituted a special task force and convened its inaugural meeting Tuesday evening.

The task force was established to assess and address the situation arising from the heavy rains that have adversely impacted the living conditions of the public. The meeting took place at the President’s Office.

The meeting focused on the current situation and identified issues that could be addressed promptly in response to the heavy rains. Additionally, they discussed measures to prevent road flooding in the event of continued rainfall and strategies to ensure the public is adequately prepared to receive assistance when needed.

President Dr Muizzu chaired the task force formed to monitor the forecast and promptly address the challenges faced by the public.

The members of the task force are as follows:

1. Minister of Defence, Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon

2. Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan

3. Minister of Education, Dr Ismail Shafeeu

4. Minister of Health, Dr Abdulla Khaleel

5. Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, Thoriq Ibrahim

6. Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works, Adam Shareef Umar

7. Chief of Staff, the President’s Office, Abdulla Fayaz

8. Chief of Defence Force, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy

9. Commissioner of Police, Ali Shujau

In response to the crisis, the President had declared Wednesday as a public holiday.

^{SOURCE : PSM}

The Maldives has cautioned all individuals travelling to and those residing in Kursk, Russia.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the Maldives Embassy in Germany is actively monitoring the situation concerning Maldivian students in Kursk and its vicinity due to the escalating Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The Ministry emphasised the crucial importance of all individuals within the region

to prioritise their personal safety and to contact the Embassy if any assistance is required. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has intensified, with Ukrainian military forces making further advances into the Kursk region. Despite President Vladimir Putin’s assurances that the Russian army would repel the Ukrainian troops, Russian forces have not succeeded in this regard amid ongoing and intensifying hostilities that have persisted for a week.

^{SOURCE : The President’s Office}

Maldives Immigration has passed to streamline the departure process for foreign travellers.

The Controller General of Maldives Immigration Mohamed Shamaan Waheed announced that effective from August 15, 2024, all outbound travellers from the Maldives will no longer be required to complete the Traveller Declaration “Imuga” Form.

This decision highlights the Government’s commitment to improving travel efficiency and enhancing travel experience.

The Travel Health Declaration Form was introduced on July 15, 2020, to strengthen the border security during the COVID-19 global pandemic. On March 14, 2021, the form was made accessible online, and its name was changed to Traveller Declaration Form. The form was filled in by local and foreign travellers as an embarkation/disembarkation form. However, on November 20, 2023, arrangements were made such that Maldivians do not have to fill the form. This change is anticipated to particularly benefit frequent travellers and business professionals, facilitating a more seamless and efficient transition through the airport.

Although the Traveller Declaration form for outbound travellers has been removed, all inbound travellers arriving in the Maldives must complete the form 96 hours before their arrival in the Maldives.

All necessary security and immigration checks will remain in place to ensure a safe and secure environment for all travellers. This update aligns with the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to enhance its reputation as a premier travel destination, known for its hospitality and efficiency. It also shows the efforts of the Maldives Immigration, to improving travel efficiency for all travellers.

^{SOURCE : PSM}

The Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology has announced that individuals have paid a total of USD 12 million in fees and penalties related to expatriate workers in the Maldives. It follows the release of a list of expatriates whose fees have not been paid.

The list, which was published on July 24, set a deadline for the state to collect fines from individuals owing more than USD 6,500 in fees and penalties to foreign workers.

The Ministry identified 1,026 businesses and individuals across various sectors, whose outstanding fees and fines exceeded that amount. The list revealed that the 1,026 entities owe USD 41 million, with a deadline of August 12 to settle the debt. By the end of the deadline, USD 12 million had been recovered. USD 29 million is yet to be recovered..

The list also revealed that 123 companies owe more than a million to the state, with some debts exceeding USD 1.7 million. The government is addressing the issue of undocumented foreign workers in the Maldives. As part of this effort, a regularisation programme has been launched to identify foreigners by collecting fingerprints and facial recognition data across all residential islands, resorts, industrial and agricultural islands.

^{SOURCE : PSM}

Maldives and the United Kingdom (UK) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to facilitate Masters studies opportunity in the UK. The signing ceremony for the MoU on establishing the Chevening Scholarship took place at the Ministry of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development. The British High Commissioner to the Maldives Caron Röhsler, awarded the scholarship in collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the British High Commission in Malé.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr. Mariyam Marya reiterated the ministry’s commitment in increasing youth awareness in various fields, develop their critical thinking and build a strong future for the nation. The Minister highlighted that the students who complete their tertiary education from abroad and return to the Maldives can face and overcoming any challenge and will have the necessary skills required to cope during the 21st century.

Meanwhile, High Commissioner Röhsler stated that increasing the number of scholarship opportunities for Maldivian students was a pleasure. The High Commissioner added that the scholarship opportunities are from fields which are vital for the development of the Maldives. She noted that this was a golden opportunity for students to experience diversification of cultures and gain practical experience.

The Ministry extended gratitude to the UK for strengthening the bilateral relationships and supporting Maldivian institutions and students. Four Maldivian students are to continue their studies in the UK, with their expenses fully covered by the government of UK.

^{SOURCE : PSM}

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Istanbul Water and Sewerage Administration (ISKI) to develop the water and sewerage sector in the Maldives. The MoU was signed between Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim and the Deputy Director General of ISKI.

The ministry stated that the agreement aims to facilitate the exchange of technical expertise between the two nations, support training programmes to develop skilled professionals in the sector and promote joint participation in international conferences. The agreement is expected to enhance the development of water and sewerage systems in both countries.

^{SOURCE : PSM}

The Government of Maldives has strongly condemned the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque by the officials including two Ministers of the Israeli government and members of the Knesset.

A statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives read that this a serious violation of the sanctity of on the holiest sites of Muslim Ummah. It read that the Maldives is deeply concerned about these repeated incursions by Israel into the Aqsa Mosque that threaten the hopes for achieving peace and stability in the region.

Furthermore, the Maldivian government stated that it and the people of Maldives stand in solidarity with the people of Palestine. The Maldivian government also reiterated its call on the international community to work together to find a peaceful and lasting solution to the conflict.

On Tuesday, Israel’s far-right national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir led more than 2,000 Israelis through the compound singing Jewish hymns under the protection of Israeli police and performed prayers. Minister of Negev and Galilee Affairs Yitzhak Wasserlauf and other members of the Israeli Knesset reportedly joined the march.

This act by the Israeli Minister was met with criticism by the United States. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement that these provocative actions only exacerbate tensions at a pivotal moment when all focus should be on the ongoing diplomatic efforts to achieve a ceasefire agreement and secure the release of all hostages and create the conditions for broader regional stability.

The United Nations called the move by the Israeli minister “unduly provocative” and stated that Al-Aqsa Mosque, like the other holy sites in Jerusalem, should be left to themselves and should be controlled by the existing religious authorities for the sites.

^{SOURCE : PSM}

Minister of Finance Dr Mohamed Shafeeg has disclosed that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has advised to allocate 50 percent of the Public Sector Investment Programmes (PSIP) budget of the next year for housing projects.

He made the statement during a meeting of the Parliamentary Committee on Public Accounts. Speaking at the committee, Minister Dr Shafeeg noted that the Government aimed to solve the issue of housing by the end of this term. Citing that the root cause of many of the problems arising in the nation is the lack of adequate housing, the Finance Minister stated

that the administration gives high priority to solving this issue. Minster Shafeeg added that the government aims to implement housing projects with the help of various facilities.

As such, he noted that the aim is to start work on 4,000 housing this year, under line of credit facility by India. He noted that the existing financing facilities will be focused on housing, with nearly USD 300 million of the line of credit available for housing.

Earlier this week, the Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development disclosed that the Government will be launching a major housing project before the end of this year. He stated that the Government aims to build 85,000 housing units before the end of its term.

^{SOURCE : PSM}