President links defence strength to economic growth
President Muizzu said the administration gives priority to safeguarding national independence.
President Mohamed Muizzu has said Maldives must build military strength to support economic growth.
He made the remarks at the inauguration of the first Army Air Station in Gan, Addu, on Wednesday.
President Muizzu said the administration gives priority to safeguarding national independence. He noted the following initiatives:
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Establishment of Air Corps and acquisition of new facilities
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Opening of the Gan air station as part of nationwide air management
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A similar facility to be completed in Shaviyani atoll Funadhoo
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Doubling of the Coast Guard fleet, with progress underway
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Marine Corps capacity development
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Human resource development for the armed forces, with allocations in the next budget
“Each of these efforts will benefit the people and the country,” he said.
The President said military capability is necessary to build a stable economic environment and attract investment. He added that investor confidence increases when national security is ensured, noting similar approaches by developed Arab and Islamic nations.
The first military air corps in Maldives was launched on 15 March last year to provide continuous monitoring of Maldivian waters. Drones were also introduced at the time.
The Gan Air Station was created by presidential decree on 3 November. The station will:
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Oversee Maldives’ airspace and Special Economic Zone
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Conduct air operations within Maldivian territory
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Maintain 24-hour national air defence
