President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and First Lady Fazna Ahmed have embarked on their official visit to Japan, which is set to open “new avenues” for cooperation with Maldives.

The First Couple departed on Friday and while their visit comes upon the official invitation from the Japanese government, they seek to enhance the bilateral ties that have long existed between both countries.

While he is set to conclude his trip on 26 October, the President’s Office revealed that Solih will be in attendance at the Enthronement Ceremony of Naruhito, the Emperor of Japan.

Further, he will be holding discussions with several officials of the government of Japan which aim to further enhance cooperation in various avenues, as the country has been an important development partner for the Maldives.

Japan’s support towards sustainable economic development in the Maldives is deemed vital to address vulnerabilities surfacing for the country’s growth.

The country has extended aid in promoting local industries, addressing the negative impacts of climate change as well as environment issues alongside disaster management.

While diplomatic relations were established between both countries in November 1967, the ties are observed through the several ways in which the country has extended aid for Maldives.

Some of the aid extended include in the form of food, industrial products needed for the mechanization of boats, development of the seawall around Malé, cultural aid grants, clean energy promotion, installation of solar panels in government buildings, promotion of coastal fisheries, renovation and construction of several schools across the country as well as assistance to reconstruction following the 2004 Tsunami.

Further, the government of Japan also provided equipment for disaster reduction, equipment for several sectors such as the health and education sectors and grant aid to enhance security efforts.

Earlier in June 2019, Maldives and Japan signed an aid agreement for MVR 70 million for the provision of a fireboat and landing craft, revealed the President’s Office.

An Exchange of Notes was also signed between both countries in December 2018, to promote Maldives economic and social development.

Under the grant assistance which provides MVR 42 million, the government will procure equipment and material for the prevention of oil spill.