Connecting the country to the international fibre cable system is a crucial step in establishing the Maldives as a hub for technology and innovation says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

President Solih made this statement at the inauguration of the Ocean Connect Maldives-India Asia Express (OCM-IAX) Submarine Cable System in Hulhumalé on Friday.

Speaking at the event, President Solih highlighted the administration's commitment to investing in the country's technological infrastructure and fostering its growth as a leader in the technology industry.

The President emphasized that the Maldives is now directly connected to the international submarine cable system for the first time in the nation's history. He stated that this connection marks the beginning of a new digital era for the Maldivian people and is a crucial step towards transforming the country into a hub for technology and international commerce, bridging the East and West.

President Solih highlighted the potential benefits of connecting the Maldives to the global fibre cable system for the country's internet service providers. He noted that this connection would significantly reduce the cost of their services and improve the speed and ease with which consumers could access the internet.

Highlighting the benefits of connecting the Maldives to the submarine cable system, President Solih underscored the potential for enhancing the administration's efforts to provide access to high-quality healthcare services and operate satellite schools. He also noted that expanding digital technology would be an added environmental protection measure.

As part of a strategic initiative spearheaded by the Ministry of Economic Development, this project is poised to usher in a new era of technological and socio-economic development for the Maldives, transforming its digital landscape and paving the way for a brighter future. The project will provide over eight times the current capacity, and the next-generation ultra-high-speed system is designed to meet the nation's needs for the next two decades. The ultimate goal is to diversify the Maldivian economy and establish the country as a key communications hub in South Asia.