The Government of Japan is donating two harbour crafts to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) to strengthen the operational capacity of its Coast Guard.

The vessels, provided under Japan’s 'Economic and Social Development Programme', are valued at USD 2.8 million in grant assistance.

The Exchange of Notes was signed on Wednesday at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel signed on behalf of the Maldives, while Ambassador Ishigami Rumiko signed on behalf of the Japanese Government.

According to the Ministry, the new vessels will support the MNDF in conducting search and rescue operations, enforcing maritime law, and enhancing safety and security in Maldivian waters.

In his remarks, Minister Dr Khaleel expressed gratitude to Japan and reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to cooperating with the Japanese Government in ensuring peace and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region, under the Free and Open Indo-Pacific policy framework.