President acknowledges Yameen, Solih at opening of VIA terminal

President Mohamed Muizzu on Saturday acknowledged the contributions of former Presidents Abdulla Yameen and Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the development of the new terminal at Velana International Airport (VIA), which officially opened that evening.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Muizzu said that the terminal’s completion was the result of nearly a decade of work involving multiple administrations. He emphasised that success is achieved through continued effort and cooperation.

“Tonight, we are marking the completion of the new airport terminal. This project reflects the hard work of two governments,” President Muizzu said. “I extend my thanks to both former President Yameen, who initiated the project, and President Solih, under whose administration further progress was made.”

The project, initially awarded to the Saudi Bin Laden Group in May 2016, was later contracted to China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC). President Muizzu also expressed gratitude to international partners and donors who supported the project financially.

The terminal was opened on the occasion of the Maldives’ Independence Day. The President noted that the timing reflected the link between economic self-reliance and national independence.

“The new terminal represents a significant contribution to the economic development of the Maldives, particularly in relation to tourism,” he said. “This is a step forward in strengthening the economic foundations of the country.”

The President added that the terminal would play a key role in expanding the tourism sector and the overall economy.

Details of the VIA Terminal Project:

President Muizzu concluded his remarks by urging national unity, stating that collective effort would lead to further development in the Maldives.