Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 146

President His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised the strategic significance of the Maldives in maintaining the balance of power in the Indian Ocean, and reaffirmed that a prosperous, independent Maldives is vital for Indian Ocean and broader global community.

Speaking at the ‘Deans Leadership Series’ of Princeton University’s School of Public and International Affairs, the President highlighted the nation’s rapid transformation, asserting that the Maldives is a development success story. He reiterated his commitment to transforming the country into an inclusive and prosperous society, step up advocacy to take action on climate crisis, and to reform the international financial architecture.

President Dr. Muizzu highlighted the Maldives’ leadership and advocacy for urgent global action to prevent a climate disaster.

He reaffirmed the nation’s dedication to environmental conservation and raising awareness about climate change. The President proposed diversifying the economy, enhancing leadership, and strengthening democracy in the Maldives to avert climate disasters.

President Dr. Muizzu also shed light on the administration’s initiatives to digital transformation and artificial intelligence.

In his speech, the President recounted the history of why UN membership was crucial for the Maldives. He highlighted that respect for sovereignty and sovereign equality among states as fundamental principles of today’s international order, and how safeguarding the sovereignty and independence is vital for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to thrive and prosper.

Addressing current global challenges, taking note of the war and genocide in Gaza, the President stressed the importance of US institutions in upholding human rights, respecting the right to peaceful protest. He urged universities to remain bastions of free thought and constructive discourse. He underscored the vital relationship between the Maldives and the United States in sustaining this rule-based international order and multilateralism.

President addressed the Princeton University, following an invitation from Dean Amaney A. Jamal, the Edwards S. Sanford Professor of Politics and International Affairs at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs.

This engagement is part of the prestigious “Dean’s Leadership Series.” The President and Dean Amaney also held a meeting and discussed areas of mutual cooperation during their meeting.

President Dr. Muizzu’s visit to Princeton University is part of his official engagements during his trip to the United States for the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

 SOURCE : The President’s Office

President His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu has met with Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus, Chief Advisor of the Interim Government of Bangladesh, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York. 

The two leaders discussed key areas of cooperation, including people-to-people exchange programs, climate change adaptation, and strengthening ties in the blue economy and maritime transportation. 

President Dr Muizzu underscored the need to enhance educational ties, particularly through exchange programs.

He advocated for increased opportunities for Maldivian students, with special emphasis on internship programs for medical students to gain valuable hands-on experience in Bangladesh. 

In conclusion, both leaders reaffirmed their dedication to strengthening diplomatic ties and advancing strategic cooperation on issues of shared concern. They reiterated their commitment to fostering deeper bilateral relations in the future. 

SOURCE : The President’s Office 

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives His Excellency Mr. Moosa Zameer sends warm greetings and good wishes to His Excellency Raşit Meredow, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkmenistan on the joyous occasion of the Independence Day of Turkmenistan 

In his message, the Minister conveyed warm congratulations on the joyous occasion of the Independence Day of Turkmenistan to the Deputy Prime Minister, on behalf of the Government and the people of Maldives.

He said that the day marks a proud moment in Turkmenistan’s rich history, celebrating the spirit of independence and the achievements of your citizens. 

He concluded his message, expressing interest to further strengthen bilateral ties and friendship between Maldives and Turkmenistan. 

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Maldives and Indonesia have held extensive discussions, aiming to strengthen trade and economic ties. The discussions were held between the Ambassador of Indonesia to the Maldives, Dewi Gustina Tobing and the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed. 

Minister Saeed revealed that the discussions focused on expanding trade and economic activities between the two nations. The minister stated that this initiative aims to boost trade and investment between the two nations. Miniter Saeed disclosed that trade between the two countries are worth USD 62 million. 

Furthermore, Minister Saeed reiterated President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s policy of enhancing bilateral ties with various countries, in terms of trade. He also emphasised the government’s efforts to increasing Maldivian exports to the global markets conveniently. 

Indonesia is one of the most popular destinations among Maldivian businessmen. The country is also a significant contributor to Maldivian imports. 

SOURCE : PSM 

President His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with His Excellency Winston Peters, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Racing of New Zealand and Head of Delegation to the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), on the sidelines of the UNGA 79 in New York. 

The President and the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Racing of New Zealand engaged in discussions aimed at exploring new avenues for bilateral cooperation, including strengthening people-to-people connections, enhancing trade and investment opportunities, and leveraging the Maldives’ strategic geographical location for mutual benefit. The conversation also covered pressing multilateral issues, with both parties emphasising the importance of addressing climate change and finding sustainable solutions to environmental challenges. 

The upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa, set to take place this October, was also highlighted as a key opportunity for collaboration on global challenges. 

Moreover, the President noted the youthful population of the Maldives, expressing the nation’s growing demand for further education opportunities and scholarships. He also extended an invitation to New Zealand investors, highlighting the Maldives’ special economic zones as a prime area for investment. 

Concluding the discussions, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening diplomatic ties and advancing strategic cooperation on shared priorities. They expressed a shared determination to work closely to strengthen the partnership between the Maldives and New Zealand. 

SOURCE : The President’s Office

US Agency for International Development’s (USAID) has announced an aid of USD 4.4 million to the Maldives, to enhance media literacy and to support democratic openings. The announcement was made during the USAID’s “Democracy Delivers” event on the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly (UNGA79). 

The Democracy Delivers Initiative was launched in 2022, by Secretary Antony Blinken and USAID Administrator Samantha Power. The event aims to build a multi-stakeholder coalition of partners and provide assistance to countries undergoing democratic renewal. Administrator Power, in partnership with the Ford Foundation, convened government leaders, philanthropic partners, and civil society to increase support to the Maldives and other countries experiencing democratic openings around the world. 

The funds will be primarily allocated for media literacy and empowerment. As such, USD 3 million will be allocated to enhance media literacy and promote information resilience. This will be done through ensuring transparency in public and media sectors while equipping the public, especially the youth, with the essential tools required to be better informed and discerning consumers of media and social media content. Meanwhile, the remaining USD 1.4 million will be allocated to increase awareness for democratic rights and civic engagement, ensuring collaboration with local councils and women’s development committees (WDCs), and advocating for transparent and accountable democratic processes.  

Additional resources provided will be invested, such that it aligns with the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to increase transparency in the public and media sectors, expand opportunities for civic engagement, and promote transparent and accountable democratic processes. USAID reiterated its commitment to partnering with the Maldives to implement economic and democratic reforms and build a robust civil society that creates an environmentally sustainable and inclusive economy.

During the event, Permanent Representative to the UN from the Maldives Ali Naseer Mohamed, joined representatives from other countries experiencing democratic opening, to highlight the Maldives’ democratic progress, welcome new investment and collaboration for democratic resilience. Partners including, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom (UK) expressed their commitment to collaborate with USAID in supporting democratic openings throughout their development and diplomatic agendas and to bolstering information resilience. Additionally, philanthropic partners also announced new commitments, expanding the Democracy Delivers Commitment to Action launched at UNGA in 2023. 

SOURCE : The President’s Office

In celebration of of the World Tourism Day 2024, Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives) is thrilled to announce the “#Maldivesmoments2024” global competition. Launched today, 27th September 2024, the competition is taking place till 12th October 2024. This exciting initiative aims to explore participants’ artistic talent and creativity in showcasing the Maldives’ breathtaking beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences to the world. 

Participants are invited to share their most stunning photos or videos of the Maldives in addition to a brief description behind their capture on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, or LinkedIn using the hashtag #Maldivesmoments2024. Whether it’s a serene sunset over a tropical island, a vibrant underwater adventure, or a cultural experience, the competition encourages contestants to capture the essence of the Maldives in a visually captivating way. The competition is open to the public, including both international visitors and Maldivian locals who are at least 18 years old. Each participant can submit up to three original entries. Images must be submitted in a 1:1 ratio and videos must be in 16:9 portrait format not exceeding 60 seconds in length. AI generated content will not be accepted for this competition. 

The judging criteria will be based on the aesthetic quality, technical quality, theme representation, among other unique aspects of the Maldives. The winner of the competition will receive a complimentary 4-nights stay at Radisson Blu Resort Maldives and their submission will be featured on Visit Maldives’ social media channels and other promotional activities. 

MMPRC continues to showcase the beauty of the Maldives through various marketing initiatives such as this. The “#Maldivesmoments2024” competition aims to strengthen the Maldives’ position as the top travel destination. MMPRC invites all photography and videography enthusiasts to participate in the competition and share their love for the Maldives with the world. 

SOURCE : PSM 

Aiming to ensure the safety and security of the public, Maldives Immigration is actively working to track down illegal immigrants. Under these efforts, it had detained a total of 16 illegal immigrants, after raiding six cafés operating in Hulhumale’ Phase I. The raids were conducted from September 24-25. Immigration stated relevant authorities had issued notices against three cafés, for not operating with the necessary permits. 

Maldives Immigration, in collaboration with other government authorities, have deported 4,054 individuals, as of September 17. Under this joint operation, nationwide efforts are underway to collect the information of immigrants.

The government has also announced that immigrants operating businesses or involved in trade activities illegally, will be detained and deported. 

This initiative has uncovered several concerns. As such, the Ministry of Homeland Security and Safety has stated that there are several immigrants residing in the Maldives illegally. It revealed that although immigrants enter the country with an open visa or a free visa facilitated by the sponsor, they engage in their own employment upon arriving at the Maldives. 

SOURCE : PSM 

The National Institute of Education (NIE) has revealed that the Seventh International Teachers’ Conference will take place from October 1-2. The biennial event is organised by the NIE. 

Minister of State for Education Dr. Ahmed Adeel Naseer revealed that this year’s conference will feature the same segments as other research seminars, with a special focus on inclusive teaching. He highlighted that six schools will be given the opportunity to present their work. The event will host 248 participants, with 44 joining online, and a total of 68 presentations will be delivered during the seminar. 

Additionally, State Minister Adeel noted that A-Level students are welcome to participate in the seminar. He also said that the event will include two keynote speeches each day and two panel discussions, alongside various presentations tailored for teachers. 

Senior Curriculum Analyst at NIE, Shuhudha Rizwan also announced that registration for the conference is available online, with the Ministry of Education covering the fees for participating teachers.

She said that the conference will host attendees from both the Maldives and abroad, particularly from neighboring countries. She also said that keynote speakers from the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe will participate. 

The theme for the seventh edition of the International Teachers’ Conference is “Educate, Empower, Elevate: Equitable Education for Twenty-First Century Excellence.” Each edition’s theme is selected based on current educational trends. The seminar aims to foster a research culture among teachers, connect the Maldives with international academic communities. It also aims to provide a platform for local and international stakeholders to share their work, ultimately contributing to positive changes in school teaching practices based on scientific research. 

SOURCE : PSM 

President His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates and Head of Delegation to the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), on the sidelines of UNGA 79 in New York. 

During the meeting, President Dr Muizzu outlined the current situation in the Maldives, emphasising areas where the government seeks support, particularly in economic development, investment, and health sector advancements. In response, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE expressed the UAE’s strong commitment to supporting the Maldives in every possible way, highlighting the close and enduring relationship between the two countries.

The meeting concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and advancing strategic cooperation on shared priorities. It underscored their mutual determination to deepen the partnership between the Maldives and the UAE, with a shared focus on fostering long-term collaboration across key sectors. 

SOURCE : PSM 

The government has announced the conclusion of the first term of the academic year, with over 96,000 students completing the term. 

All students who completed the first term have received their report cards. The second term is scheduled to begin on October 6 and will run until March 6, 2025, when the annual school holidays will begin. 

This academic year, 162 government schools are offering single-session classes, while 55 schools are running two sessions. In addition, six schools are implementing satellite-based learning.

Over 96,000 students are enrolled, including 40,300 girls and 42,700 boys, with around 26,000 attending schools in the capital Male’ City. 

The government aims to return the academic calendar to a January start, as it was before the COVID-19 pandemic caused the shift to mid-year. The Ministry of Education has noted that many parents and students prefer the academic year to begin in January and has developed a plan to transition the academic year back to January in 2026.

SOURCE : PSM 

Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has announced that the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA) will be inaugurated by December this year, marking a significant milestone for the country’s tourism sector. He made the statement in his message for World Tourism Day, emphasising that the new passenger terminal is a key component of the larger airport modernisation project. 

In his message, Minister Faisal highlighted that the new terminal at VIA is crucial for the growth of the tourism sector of the Maldives. He also noted that operations at the terminal will begin by December, with the entire airport expected to be fully operational by the first or second quarter of next year. 

Additionally, Minister Faisal stressed the importance of attracting more airlines to operate flights to the Maldives once the new terminal becomes operational. As such, he said the government plans to collaborate with the tourism sector on marketing campaigns.

He noted that capitalising on the terminal’s opening the government has potential to boost marketing efforts, increase occupancy, and enhance tourist spending. Currently, he said that tourism generates USD 4.5 billion for the state, with a target of reaching USD 6 billion by 2027. 

The existing international terminal at VIA handles 1.5 million passengers annually. In contrast, the newly constructed 78,000-square-metre terminal, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, will be able to accommodate 7 million passengers each year. The final preparations are underway, with the new terminal set to feature aero boarding bridges, advanced baggage handling systems, and ample space for food and beverage outlets, retail shops, lounges, and other services, addressing the limitations of the current terminal. 

The Ministry of Tourism has revealed that over 100,000 tourists have visited the Maldives so far this September. 

Statistics released by the tourism ministry indicated that over 1.4 million tourists visited the Maldives from January 1– September 24. This is a remarkable increase of 9.9% compared to the 1.3 million tourist arrival within the same period last year. According to the report, a total of 104,275 tourists visited the Maldives between September 1-24. This is an increase of 3%, compared to the 101,233 tourists who visited the Maldives during the same period last year. The statistics by the ministry highlights that Chinese tourists comprise the majority of arrivals in 2024, with 214,102 visitors.

Following China, the leading source markets include Russia with 159,129 visitors, 124,662 arrivals from the United Kingdom, 105,839 from Italy and 104,196 from Germany. 

The data shows that 1,228 facilities have been opened, providing services to tourists, with a total bed capacity of 62,908. On average, over 5,000 tourists arrive to the Maldives daily, with the majority staying for a 7.7 day period. This steady influx has encouraged the government to set an ambitious target of attracting two million tourists by the end of the year. 

SOURCE : PSM 

The Ministry of Defence has announced the launch of a special operation to inspect chemical storage facilities, named “Operation Hiraas Faas,” which will commence on October 1. 

In line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s initiatives to foster a healthy society, various ministries and state institutions are actively identifying measures to enhance community health, safety, and security. Ministry of Defence is particularly focused on ensuring the full implementation of laws and regulations designed to protect individuals and their property. 

The ministry oversees the authorisation of hazardous chemical imports for various purposes, as well as the storage of these chemicals. It has the authority to inspect hazardous chemical storage facilities to ensure compliance with the law.

While the ministry acknowledges that the storage of hazardous chemicals is permissible within legal parameters, there have been reports of regulatory violations by some individuals. 

The ministry has expressed concerns that failure to comply with regulations could lead to irreparable harm. It noted that a significant quantity of hazardous chemicals has been stored in residential areas of Male’ City, although such storage has been prohibited since a tragic fire, some years ago. As a result, chemical warehouses in Male’ have since been relocated to Thilafushi, Kaafu Atoll.

SOURCE : PSM 

The Government of the Maldives has announced that the Maldives will submit the necessary documents to intervene with the case submitted by South Africa to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) against Israel. South Africa filed this case on December 29, 2023, alleging that Israel is violating the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, which came into effect in 1948. The Maldives has decided to intervene in the case, following the recommendation of the Cabinet. 

Speaking at a special segment aired on PSM News, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Secretary for Multilateral Affairs Ahmed Shiyan emphasised the government’s efforts to intervene in the case submitted by South Africa against Israel. Secretary Shiyan indicated that the Maldives will thoroughly examine the case to identify areas where Israel can be held accountable and will present its findings to the ICJ in The Hague, Netherlands. The Maldives’ representative in this matter will be Attorney General Ahmed Usham. 

Highlighting the Maldives’ efforts to fight for the right of Palestinians, Shiyan stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu also called for the establishment of Palestine as an independent state, in his address at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79). The president has urged the international community to hold Israel accountable for its actions and affirmed that the Maldives will do everything possible to support Palestine and its cause. 

The Maldives has consistently called for an end to the ongoing violence against the Palestinian people across various platforms. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that the Maldives has demonstrated its support for Palestine at ministerial levels and in foreign affairs. It has reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to standing in solidarity with Palestine, a position that will remain unchanged. 

SOURCE : PSM 

President His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu has departed New York after concluding his official visit to attend the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday. 

During his visit, President Dr Muizzu delivered his statement at the General Debate of the 79th UNGA. In a historic moment, the President also addressed the Security Council, marking the first time a Maldivian President has done so in the 59 years since the Maldives became a UN member. He delivered multiple statements and co-chaired several sideline events, where he highlighted key issues such as climate change, renewable energy, socio-economic challenges, and digitalisation. 

The President also held various high-level bilateral meetings with Heads of Delegations to UNGA 79 and multilateral meetings, including one with the United Nations Secretary-General, His Excellency António Guterres. Additionally, he met with the Maldivian community residing in New York. 

Furthermore, President Dr Muizzu addressed Princeton University as part of the “Dean’s Leadership Series” at the Princeton School of Public and International Affairs. He also visited and toured the Google office in New York.

SOURCE : PSM

The Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) has officially joined the Belt and Road Initiative Tax Administration Cooperation Mechanism (BRITACOM). Commissioner General of Taxation Hassan Zareer signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on September 24, during the 5th Belt and Road Initiative Tax Cooperation Forum held in Hong Kong. 

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Zareer emphasised the significance of the participation of MIRA in BRITACOM, noting its role in fostering collaboration among tax authorities within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) region. He highlighted how joint efforts can address common challenges and underscored the importance of enhancing regional and international cooperation to build strong tax systems.

Through its BRITACOM membership, MIRA aims to strengthen its capacity to manage tax administration efficiently by leveraging the opportunities presented by this platform. 

BRITACOM was established to promote cooperation between tax authorities across the BRI region and to create a mechanism that provides technical support to its members. MIRA employees will benefit from access to training programmes, discussion forums, and insights from more developed countries, all of which will help further enhance MIRA operations. 

SOURCE : PSM