A major step forward in the ongoing enhancement of disaster resilience in the capital island of Malé was marked with the signing of a new Exchange of Notes between the Government of Maldives and the Government of Japan. The agreement, valued at USD 10.5 million, officially launches the construction phase of the Seawall Renovation Project under Japan’s assistance program titled “Project for Disaster Resilience Enhancement in Malé Island.”
The official signing ceremony took place on Saturday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Exchange of Notes was signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives, Dr Abdulla Khaleel, and Japan’s Special Envoy and Parliamentary Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Ikuina Akiko, who is on an official visit to the Maldives from 25–27 July 2025.
During the ceremony, Minister Dr Khaleel underscored the vital importance of the Malé seawall as a national protective asset. He recalled its origins following the devastating tidal surges of 1987 and emphasized its instrumental role during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, when it helped shield the capital from catastrophic destruction and saved countless lives. Describing the seawall as more than just a physical structure, the Minister noted its enduring representation of the strong and reliable partnership between Japan and the Maldives.
The current USD 10.5 million contribution from the Japanese Government builds on decades of bilateral development assistance and reflects Tokyo’s continued commitment to supporting the Maldives in strengthening its resilience against natural disasters and climate change. The renovation project is expected to reinforce the existing seawall infrastructure with modern engineering, providing long-term safety for residents and preserving key urban zones along the capital’s coastline.
Minister Khaleel further stated that the agreement is not only a continuation of an essential project, but also a reaffirmation of the robust diplomatic relationship between the two island nations. As the Maldives commemorates 60 years of independence this year and prepares to celebrate six decades of diplomatic relations with Japan in 2027, the partnership continues to grow in strategic depth and scope. He expressed optimism about future collaboration in areas including maritime security, trade, and the pursuit of regional stability. Dr Khaleel also reiterated the Maldives’ steadfast support for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, aligning with Japan’s regional vision.
The signing event was attended by key stakeholders from both countries, including Minister of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib, senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Finance and Planning, representatives from the Embassy of Japan, and delegates from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Japan remains one of the Maldives’ most consistent and trusted development partners. Over the years, Japanese cooperation has extended to sectors such as education, public health, fisheries, disaster preparedness, and environmental protection. The continued strengthening of this partnership sends a clear message to international partners and tourists alike: the Maldives is a country investing in resilience, sustainability, and long-standing friendships rooted in mutual respect and global cooperation.
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