Project launched to enhance public health security at critical entry points to Maldives

‘The Project for Strengthening Capacity of Border Control for Responding to Infectious Diseases in Southwest Asia’ which is aimed at enhancing public health security at critical points of entry in the Maldives was launched on Wednesday.

The project was launched by Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel during a special ceremony held at Velana International Airport.

The project is aimed at enhancing public health security at critical points of entry in the Maldives to reinforce the nation’s readiness for infectious disease threats in the region. It organized by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and funded by the Government of Japan.

The collaborative initiative between the Maldives, Japan, and IOM underscores the significance of building trust, confidence, and capacity within the public health framework. 

Speaking at the launching event, Minister Khaleel thanked the partners of the project and emphasized that it was not only a representation of 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.

The launching ceremony was also attended by IOM Chief of Mission Kristin Parco, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives Takeuchi Midori, and other representatives from the government and agencies involved in the project.