President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated that Raajje Transport Link (RTL) ferry services will be established in the southern most atolls of the country before the end of 2023.

The President made the statement during his fifth presidential address, delivered during the inaugural sitting of the People’s Majlis on Monday.

In his address, the President noted that the islands should be developed in a particular order. As such, he noted that the economic activities which are currently based in certain areas of the country need to be spread throughout the country. To do this, a trusted transportation system is needed to be established first, said the President.

Stating that the whole of Maldives needs to be connected via sea, land and air transportation, President Solih stated that a trusted transportation system is most important in developing the country’s economy.

President Solih noted that the administration has launched the projects to establish domestic airports needed for the country. Highlighting that the Hoarafushi Airport is now open, the President stated that Faresmaathoda Airport too will be opened next month.

F. Magoodhoo and M. Mulee airport will also be opened by the end of the year, said the President.

Furthermore, he noted that the expansion project of Maafaru International Airport has been commenced. He also noted that projects are underway to reclaim more land needed for the airport development projects of Alifushi, Makunudhoo, Bilehfahi, Thulhaadhoo and Vilifushi islands.

President Solih noted that his administration is working to connect the islands via air transportation. As such, he highlighted that work on the biggest airport development projects, out side the greater Male’ area is currently ongoing.

The President stated that the work on Hanimaadhoo International Airport development is ongoing and that the aim is to complete the new runway of the airport during the last quarter of the year.

Additionally, President Solih noted that the development project of the Addu International Airport will be commenced early this year.

President Solih in his address, noted that the Hanimaadhoo International Airport project and the Addu International Airport development project, once completed will provide services to 2.8 million passengers a year.