Male’, Maldives — The neighboring country, India has agreed to aid the Maldives in building a coastguard harbor and dockyard in the country.
A signing ceremony was held today to sign the Uthuru Thilafalhu (UTF) naval base Harbour Project agreement between Maldives and India. On behalf of Maldives, Defense Minister, Mariya Didi signed the agreement and Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs of India signed the agreement on behalf of India.
Under this agreement, India will be aiding Maldives in strengthening the Maldivian Coast Guard capability and facilitate regional HADR efforts. The coastguard harbor and dockyard has been decided to be built in the greater Male’ area.
The Indian government assured that they will help provide the island nation with necessary equipment needed to operate the place. This includes of providing a radar system along with educating Maldivian employees in how to operate the new equipment.
The agreement also states that India will help Maldives in developing and maintaining the coastguard harbor and dockyard for 15 years.
Minister Mariya thanked India for the unwavering support & assistance India has shown in developing the capabilities of the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF). She stated that the Coast Guard Harbour & Dockyard at SIFAVARU will mark another significant milestone.
