With an aim to further the friendly relations shared between Maldives and Japan, governments of both countries have signed an Exchange of Notes on Monday.

The Exchange of Notes was signed by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives Abdulla Shahid and Ambassador of Japan to Maldives Keiko Yanai.

Under the non-project grant assistance, the Japanese government will extend a grant of 500 million Japanese Yen (over USD four million) for the promotion of economic and social development of Maldives.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that the grant will be applied in counter terrorism efforts.

The Japanese government had also provided a grant aid worth 1,100 million Japanese Yen back in 2017 during the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen.

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

A Maldives delegation, led by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih is currently in Tokyo, Japan, following an official invitation from the from the Japanese government. The visit aims to enhance the bilateral ties that have long existed between both countries.

Earlier on Monday, Solih met Shinzō Abe, Japan’s Prime Minister.

The president is also set to attend the Enthronement Ceremony of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito of Japan.

Japan has been one of the biggest development partners to the Maldives, having contributed immensely to the country’s socio-economic development during the past few decades.

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