President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the Government has begun work to strengthen the capacity of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) across all areas.

Speaking during a presentation on the Administration’s achievements at the Social Centre to mark its two-year anniversary, the President said enhancing the capability of the MNDF is essential to safeguarding the country’s sovereign boundary.

The President highlighted that the Coast Guard fleet has now doubled, the Marine Corps has been expanded, and the Air Corps has been established. He added that a new MNDF air station has recently been opened in Addu City, with another planned for the northernmost region of the Maldives.

He said the public strongly supports strengthening the country’s sea and airspace management capacity, noting that such efforts reflect the wishes of the Maldivian people. “It is our responsibility to strengthen our military. I do not believe we should see ourselves as weak,” he said, emphasising that the Maldives is a geographically vast nation with a proud history.

The President further stated that while the Government is enhancing military capability, it is also working closely with international partners. He noted that maintaining strong defence capabilities is important not only for national security but also for investor confidence, as the protection of independence and territorial integrity remains a key consideration for those investing in the Maldives.