The Maldives and Japan have held discussions on strengthening cooperation in the health sector, including opportunities to further support the development of healthcare services in the country.

The discussions took place during a meeting between Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives Ishigami Rumiko and Minister of Health, Family and Welfare Geela Ali.

The Japanese Embassy said the meeting focused on challenges facing the Maldives' health and social sectors, as well as areas where the two countries could expand cooperation to support future development.

Japan has been one of the Maldives' longstanding development partners and has provided assistance to the country's health sector through infrastructure, equipment and capacity-building initiatives. Earlier this year, the Japanese government donated a sea ambulance to support medical emergency services in the Maldives.

In addition to equipment and emergency response support, Japan has also contributed to the development of the health sector through training programmes and technical assistance for healthcare professionals.