Japan Provides USD2.2 million Aid to Maldives’ Graft Watchdog

The Japanese government on Sunday provided around USD2.2 million in aid to enhance the mobility and operational efficiency of the Anti-Corruption Commission.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulla Khaleel and the Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, Takeuchi Midori signed the Exchange of Notes during a ceremony held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday.

Under Japan’s Economic and Social Development Programme, this Exchange of Notes marks the commencement of a project aimed at improving the operational capacity of the ACC by enhancing its mobility infrastructure.

The assistance, amounting to 300 million Japanese Yen (USD 2.158 million), will enable the ACC to efficiently respond to corruption allegations and conduct investigations across the geographically dispersed islands of the Maldives.

During the ceremony, Minister Dr Khaleel highlighted the importance of this project in strengthening efforts to combat corruption and improve governance. He emphasized that the project is a significant step towards building a more transparent and accountable government, ensuring swift and effective action on corruption in the Maldives.

Dr Khaleel also expressed his gratitude to the Japanese government for its continued support for its pivotal role in strengthening institutions in the Maldives.

The Minister also reflected on the long-standing and friendly relations between the Maldives and Japan, marking the 57th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

He emphasized that Japan’s assistance continues to be an integral partner in the socio-economic development and governance efforts of the Maldives.

The aid by the Japanese government includes 14 vehicles and two marine vessels in addition to funds for the ACC.