No decision on main port project, still in talks: MPL Chief

Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) CEO Mohammed Wajeeh on Wednesday denied the news that the main commercial port will be leased to a Philippine company, and that the main port development plans are still under discussion.

Some newspapers reported on Wednesday that Maldives' main commercial port will be given to a Philippine company for 25 years.

Denying the reports, Wajeeh told Atoll Times that no decision has been taken to give the commercial port to any company yet.

"We are in discussions with interested parties about developing the port. No one has been shortlisted or no one has been selected yet," he said.

Companies that have expressed interest include Dubai World and a Chinese company.

While the opportunity to express interest is still open, Wajeeh said he is still working to get better offers.

He said the model for the port development has not been decided yet. Models under discussion, he said, include options such as joint venture and contractor finance.

“The port will be built after finding the most beneficial option for the country and the people. I can assure that much”.

Decisions on this will be taken soon, he said, adding that the government's aim is to relocate the commercial port to Thilafushi before the end of its term.