The Japanese government on Monday donated JP¥800 million (US$5.2 million) worth of modern equipment to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard for deployment in maritime search and rescue operations.
The Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, Takeuchi Midori, presented the equipment to the MNDF during an event at the MNDF’s Bandaara Koshi, with Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon accepting it on behalf of the Coast Guard.
Maumoon, speaking at the event, highlighted that the Coast Guard was working to double its vessels and operational equipment as well as services provided by the agency in the coming days.
The equipment donated by the Japanese government will enhance the agency’s ability to respond swiftly and robustly to maritime emergencies, he said.
The Minister thanked the Japanese government for its assistance to the Maldives, and in particular for the equipment donated to the Coast Guard.