Signing MoU with India to acquire fitness equipment was done under President Muizzu's "Maldives First" policy: Iruthisham
The governments of Maldives and India signed an agreement today to provide fitness equipment for centers across 42 islands under Indian grant assistance. The government stated that this project will facilitate healthier lifestyles for island residents by providing accessible resources and will further strengthen community social bonds.
The Maldives and India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide equipment for fitness and recreation centers established across 42 islands in the Maldives. | Foreign Ministry
The Maldives and India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to provide equipment for fitness and recreation centers established across 42 islands in the Maldives. This initiative is being carried out under the Indian government-funded "High Impact Community Development Project" (HICDP) scheme.
The signing ceremony for this Memorandum of Understanding was held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam signed the Memorandum of Understanding on behalf of the Maldivian government. High Commissioner G. Balasubramanian, the Indian representative to the Maldives, signed the agreement on behalf of the Government of India.
Furthermore, the agreement was signed on behalf of the implementing agency by the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts, Ibrahim Rafiu.
Speaking at the ceremony, Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam stated that providing equipment for fitness and recreation centers across 42 islands represents a significant investment in the well-being of local communities. The Minister further noted that this project will promote healthy lifestyles and ensure easy access to high-quality exercise facilities.
Furthermore, the Minister stated that this serves as a testament to the efforts being made to strengthen international relations based on national interests and developmental priorities, under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s "Maldives First" policy.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Rafiu stated that these fitness and recreation centers will serve as vital hubs for promoting healthy lifestyles and strengthening social ties. The Minister further highlighted that the project will provide opportunities for people of all ages—particularly women and youth—to engage in sports and recreational activities, contributing to the long-term well-being of island communities.
During the ceremony, both ministers expressed their gratitude for the generous assistance provided by the Indian government to the Maldives. Foreign Minister Iruthisham highlighted the significance Prime Minister Narendra Modi attaches to strengthening bilateral ties and extended sincere thanks to the government and people of India.
