The government of Japan has donated modern equipment used in maritime search and rescue operations to the Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) Coast Guard.

During a special ceremony held at the Bandaara Koshi Auditorium, the equipment was officially handed over to MNDF by Takeuchi Midori, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives.

The equipment was received on behalf of MNDF by Minister of Defense Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon.

During the ceremony, Minister Ghassan highlighted that Japan is a country that provides assistance to the Maldives in several different ways and expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for donating aid to MNDF. He also noted the government's efforts to double the Coast Guard's vessels, operational equipment, and services provided by MNDF Coast Guard in the coming days.

Minister Ghassan stated that the equipment donated by Japan would enhance MNDF Coast Guard's capability to respond quickly and effectively in maritime emergency situations.

The ceremony was attended by Coast Guard Commandant Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem, MNDF General Officers, and senior officials from the Embassy of Japan. Dr. Hala Hameed, Secretary, Bilateral from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also participated in the ceremony.