Maldives aid to Sri Lanka tops $2.4 million

The total amount raised by the people of Maldives to support Sri Lanka during the crisis will exceed USD 2.4 million, according to Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel.

A nationwide telethon was launched by PSM in collaboration with multiple media outlets in Maldives to raise funds. The initiative received contributions from the public, companies and agencies. The telethon alone collected USD 800,000.

Speaking at the handover ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Khaleel said the overall contribution would increase further when donations made outside the telethon are included. He noted that the assistance will be transferred to the Sri Lankan government on Tuesday.

Khaleel said the public response demonstrated the long-standing ties between the two countries and the regard Maldivians hold for Sri Lanka. He said Maldives was among the first countries to extend support.

The contributions from Maldivians have been acknowledged by the public in Sri Lanka, with many expressing appreciation for the funds raised within a short period.