Ref: 2024/PR/348
Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel participated as Chief Guest at the inauguration of "The Project for Strengthening Capacity of Border Control for Responding to Infectious Diseases in Southwest Asia" held today at Velana International Airport. Organised by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and funded by the Government of Japan, this initiative aims to enhance public health security at critical Points of Entry in the Maldives, reinforcing the nation’s readiness for infectious disease threats in the region.
Speaking at the event, Minister Khaleel thanked the partners of the project and emphasised that this project represents not only immediate safety enhancements but also a long-term commitment to achieving developed status by 2040. He highlighted the importance of economic resilience in reaching this milestone while noting that strengthening border health capacity will ensure the smooth operation of airports, which are vital gateways to economic stability and growth.
This collaborative initiative between the Maldives, Japan, and IOM underscores the significance of building trust, confidence, and capacity within the public health framework.
Minister Khaleel was joined by IOM Chief of Mission Kristin Parco, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives Takeuchi Midori, and other representatives of the Government and the agencies involved in the projects.
ENDS.