Maldives News Bulletin Volume 99

Date: July 24, 2024 | Volume: 99

The President to address the nation at this year’s Independence Day function

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu will address the nation during this year’s Independence Day function, which is scheduled for the Social Centre on Friday night, July 26, 2024.

The National Award for Public Service will be presented to long-serving public employees at the function.

The National Award for Public Service recognises individuals who have served the nation for over 35 years and contributed to the development of their respective fields. These individuals are considered diligent and steadfast employees. The National Award for Public Service is granted to any individual who fulfils the eligibility criteria, irrespective of their employment status within the state.

The National Award for Public Service will be presented to 138 veteran state employees on this year’s Independence Day.

Minister of Foreign Affairs concludes his Official Visit to China

Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer has departed Beijing, following a successful official visit to the People’s Republic of China.

During the visit, Minister Zameer held extensive discussions with Minister Wang Yi, on bilateral cooperation. The talks focused on key infrastructure projects, economic collaboration, and sustainable development initiatives. Minister Zameer also briefed Minister Wang Yi on the domestic fiscal reforms announced by President Dr. Muizzu and requested China’s support to the Maldives in carrying out the reform programme.

During the meeting, Minister Zameer formally delivered two letters from President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu addressed to President Xi Jinping.

In addition to discussions with Minister Wang, Minister Zameer met with senior officials from the Chinese government and representatives from key Chinese companies, fostering deeper ties and exploring opportunities for collaboration.

Minister Zameer also witnessed signing of the “Letters of Exchange on the Feasibility Study for the Redevelopment of Malé and Villimalé Roads Project,” one of the key pledges of President Dr. Muizzu.

During the visit, Minister Zameer visited the Embassy of the Maldives in China and met with the Embassy staff.

Minister Zameer was accompanied by Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq, Minister of Finance, Dr. Abdulla Muththalib, Minister of Construction and Infrastructure and senior officials of the Government of Maldives.

Maldives calls for sustainable finance for SIDS

Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr. Ali Haidar Ahmed has highlighted the need for sustainable finance for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

He made the remarks while representing the Maldives at the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD) held in Ethiopia.

Speaking at the conference, Minister Dr. Haidar highlighted the necessity of enhancing the current financial assistance systems for SIDS and providing sustainable funding. He also stressed the importance of supporting development projects and capacity building in these island nations to help them address various challenges.

At the same conference in May, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu advocated for increased financial support for island nations. He also underscored the need for easily accessible funding to help these countries advance in their development efforts.

Bulk import will address difficulties in obtaining medications: MFDA

The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has stated that the bulk importation of medicine will facilitate the availability of prescribed medications sustainably. The initiative aims to address shortages of medicines, especially those required to treat chronic diseases.

Noting that medical drugs are often imported and sold in private pharmacies, MFDA revealed that the medicines imported often fail to meet demand, eventually leading to inflated prices. Aiming to address the issue, the government has started to implement measures to ensure that Europeanquality medicines are available in the Maldives at affordable prices, in line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment.

Providing insight on the ongoing works to resolve the issue, Senior Pharmacist of MFDA Aishath Jaleela stressed that some vital medications required in critical situations were not readily available in the Maldives. Jaleela explained that this is due to the relatively low demand for such medication in the nation, and companies are unable to cater to that low demand. Under this initiative, she said that arrangements have been made with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), to secure consistent access to these essential medications in the Maldives.

The medications and vaccinations required to treat chronic diseases in the Maldives are often required in small quantities and are difficult to store for extensive durations. Although State Trading Organisation (STO) provides this service, insufficient supply of the medicines poses significant disadvantages to the patients diagnosed with the disease.

Additionally, it can be noted that the prices of medicines in the Maldives are significantly higher in the Maldives compared to that of global and regional markets. Therefore, the availability of European-quality medicines through the UNDP promises a sustainable solution to these issues.

The Vice President meets with the American Bar Association Maldives Rule of Law Initiative

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has met with the American Bar Association Maldives Rule of Law Initiative (ABA MROLI). The meeting was held at the President’s Office this morning.

During the meeting, the Vice President emphasised President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s steadfast commitment to collaboration with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), underscoring the crucial role NGOs play in the nation’s progress.

Members of the ABA MROLI highlighted the significant efforts undertaken by the NGO in the Maldives since its establishment in 2021. They also stressed the ongoing efforts to strengthen institutions through collaborative initiatives and specialised programmes designed to address critical issues such as anti-human trafficking, anti-corruption, anti-money laundering, financial compliance, health, and legal service needs for the migrant population. Furthermore, they spotlighted collaborative endeavours with law enforcement agencies and the judicial sector to drive reform.

Recognising the invaluable contribution of the migrant workforce to the nation’s progress, the Vice President reiterated the Administration’s unwavering commitment to addressing the challenges faced by this demographic. He emphasised the President’s prioritisation of remedying the issues encountered by the migrant workforce, citing recent significant decisions made following deliberations at the Cabinet.

The Vice President and the ABA MROLI members discussed potential areas of collaboration. The meeting concluded on the positive note of working together on areas important for national progress.

ABA MROLI, registered in the Maldives, is a part of the American Bar Association Rule of Law Initiative (ABA ROLI), an international development programme of the American Bar Association (ABA) that promotes justice, economic opportunity, and human dignity through the rule of law.

Maldives, AIIB explore funding options

The Maldives and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has conducted discussions to explore more funding options for the country.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Zameer and AIIB President Jin Liqun’s discussions were held on the recently concluded trip the Maldivian officials undertook to China.

Minister Zameer expressed gratitude to the bank for its previous support, particularly for the Greater Male’ Waste Energy Project. He also explored with President Liqun potential funding opportunities for upcoming construction and renewable energy projects aligned with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s development agenda.

At the meeting, Minister Zameer was joined by Minister of Finance Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq and Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib. Their visit to China, which began on July 20, was at the invitation of Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi.

Vice President meets with the Island Council and WDC members of HDh. Nolhivaranfaru

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has met with the Island Council and WDC members of HDh. Nolhivaranfaru Island to discuss vital development initiatives for the island. The meeting took place at the President’s Office this afternoon.

During the council meeting, the Council members relayed several pertinent issues affecting the island. The Council highlighted the need for water, electricity and sanitation facilities for the 100 newly constructed housing units in the island. They urged the Vice President to build a better level of football and futsal fields and increase sports-related facilities available in the Island. The Council members also highlighted the need to start the road development project and the new school building project at the earliest as possible, relocating police station, ATM services, deepening the harbour, need of proper waste management facilities in the island, improving health centre services and access to medicines.

Speaking at the meeting, the Vice President noted that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has been working tirelessly to restore normalcy in the Maldives by resolving the current financial challenges. He also noted that the government and the President are closely monitoring all development issues.

The Vice President assured the Council members that this administration would continue to discuss the issues raised by the Council with the relevant government authorities and closely monitor the progress.

Maldives and China sign road development feasibility study agreement

The Maldives and China have signed Letters of Exchange on the Feasibility Study for the Redevelopment of Malé and Villimalé Roads Project, one of the key pledges of the government of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

The agreement was signed by Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr. Abdulla Muththalib and Luo Zhaohui, the Chairman of China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA).

The signing took place, following a comprehensive and productive meeting between the Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer and Chairman Luo Zhaohui. The discussions were centred on enhancing collaboration in key infrastructure projects, essential for national development.

Speaking at the meeting, Minister Zameer emphasised the crucial importance of the partnership between the Maldives and CIDCA. The Minister shed light on the ongoing joint initiatives, while discussing other developmental projects necessary for the sustainable growth of the nation.

Both sides agreed on the significance of timely implementation of projects that will improve infrastructure and enhance economic growth. The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to close collaboration for the successful execution of future initiatives benefiting both nations.

Minister Zameer holds vital infrastructure discussions with CIDCA

Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer held a meeting with the Chairman of China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), Luo Zhaohui today, as part of his ongoing official visit to China. The discussions focused on strengthening collaboration in key infrastructure projects that are vital for the sustainable development of the Maldives.’

Minister Zameer emphasised the importance of the partnership between the Maldives and CIDCA, highlighting ongoing initiatives and exploring new opportunities for cooperation. Both sides agreed on the importance of timely implementation of projects that will improve infrastructure and enhance economic growth in the Maldives, thus providing substantial benefits for the Maldivian people.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to collaborate closely, ensuring the successful execution of future initiatives that benefit both nations.

Minister Zameer was accompanied by Dr. Mohamed Shafeeq, Minister of Finance, Dr. Abdulla Muththalib, Minister of Construction and Infrastructure, Dr. Fazeel Najeeb, Ambassador-Designate and Senior Officials of the Government of Maldives, and the Embassy of Maldives in China.

Govt expands A-level education to 23 schools

Minister of Education Dr. Ismail Shafeeu has announced that the government will be providing the opportunity for all students from 23 various schools, to pursue their higher secondary education (A Level). The announcement was made by the minister in his address at the Prize Day 2024 of Centre for Higher Secondary Education (CHSE).

The ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of the students who secured top places in their academic pursuits. The First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed graced the ceremony and presented awards to the distinguished students who achieved first place.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Dr. Shafeeu stressed that the biggest challenge the government faces when providing the opportunities to study A Level, is that several students completing their secondary education do not meet the required academic standards. Hence, the minister revealed that the government has decided to provide opportunities for all students of 23 schools depending on the capacity of the schools.

Dr. Shafeeu noted the government prioritizes investing in enhancing youth skills and bolstering national productivity in the long term.

During the ceremony, a total of 167 students were presented with awards for their outstanding performances in the higher secondary examinations in 2023.

Parliament approves legal assistance exchange with Sri Lanka

The Parliament of the Maldives has approved to exchange legal assistance with Sri Lanka.

The Parliament approved the establishment of an agreement on assistance and cooperation between the Maldives and Sri Lanka to prevent criminal offences. The Parliament made the decision following the case submitted by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to gain approval to establish such an agreement.

The purpose of the agreement is to maintain the long-standing relationship between the two countries and to aid and cooperation with each other in the prevention of criminal offences. Under the agreement, assistance shall be provided in criminal matters to the widest extent possible in accordance with the laws and regulations of that country and in accordance with the provisions of the agreement.

Efforts to establish the agreement with Sri Lanka began in 2011.

Vice President departs to Paris, to attend the opening ceremony of the “Paris 2024 Olympics”

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has departed to Paris, France on Wednesday morning, to attend the opening ceremony of the “Paris 2024 Olympics”, on the invitation of the French Government and International Olympic Committee.

The Paris 2024 Olympics Opening Ceremony will take place on Friday, July 26th 2024.

During the visit, the Vice President is scheduled to meet with the Maldivian contingent participating in the “Paris 2024 Olympics” and attend their respective competitions.

This year, five Maldivians will compete in the Paris 2024 Olympics, marking the country’s highest level of participation. Last Sunday, the President also met and commended the athletes competing in the “Paris 2024 Olympics” and affirmed the Government’s unprecedented commitment to advancing sports in the country.

Fathimath Dheema Ali, a table tennis player, and Ibadulla Adam, a sprinter, were honoured with the prestigious opportunity to bear the national flag during the Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games.

First Lady attends the CAVA Under-20 Women’s Volleyball Championship closing ceremony

First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed attends the closing ceremony of the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA) Under-20 Women’s Volleyball Championship. The championship, which commenced on July 18, concluded this evening with an intense final match.

The First Lady attended the final game at the closing ceremony, which took place at the Maldives Centre for Social Education (MCSE) hall. The championship’s decisive game featured a spirited competition between Sri Lanka and Kyrgyzstan.

Four teams participated in the Central Asian Volleyball Association (CAVA) Under-20 Women’s Volleyball Championship: the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Kyrgyzstan, and Nepal. Team Kyrgyzstan emerged victorious, securing the championship title against Sri Lanka. This is the first championship organised in the Maldives, specifically tailored for players under 20 years of age.

At the closing ceremony, the First Lady presented the fair play team with a shield and awarded the champion team gold medals and the championship trophy. The championship was organised by the Volleyball Association of Maldives.

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Maldives contingent departs for Paris 2024 Olympics

The Maldives contingent has departed for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The Maldives is sending its largest-ever delegation to the Olympics, which will take place from July 26 to August 11. The nation will compete in four sports, which include badminton, athletics, swimming, and table tennis.

The five athletes representing the Maldives include table tennis player Fathimath Dheema Ali, who qualified through a selection round, Ibadulla Adam, who is training in Jamaica and will compete in athletics. Meanwhile, Fathimath Nabaha, the first Maldivian to participate in two consecutive Olympics, will compete in badminton, and Mohamed Aan Hussain and Aishath Ulya Shaaiq will compete in swimming.

President of the Table Tennis Association of Maldives (TTAM) Ali Rasheed will lead the Maldivian contingent as Chief of Mission. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu had also presented the Maldivian flag to Dheema and Ibadulla, who will carry it during the opening ceremony of the Olympics.