Maldives Signs Agreement with Australia for National Development Master Plan

The Maldives has entered into an agreement with Australia to receive technical assistance for the development of its 20-year National Development Master Plan.

At a ceremony held last Thursday at the Ministry of Housing, Land, and Urban Development, a Letter of Exchange was signed by Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed, Minister of Housing, Land, and Urban Development, on behalf of the Maldives, and David Jessup, Australia’s High Commissioner to the Maldives, representing the Australian government.

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A Letter of Exchange was signed today between the Government of Maldives and the Government of Australia to provide technical assistance for the formulation of a 20-year National Development Plan. pic.twitter.com/F6fYEwYMvu— Ministry of Housing, Land and Urban Development (@MHLUDmv) October 3, 2024

Under the agreement, the Australian government will provide AUD 900,000 (MVR 9.4 million) in aid through the UNDP Integrated Governance Project. This financial support is aimed at assisting the Maldives in drafting the long-term development strategy, according to the ministry.

The Maldivian cabinet had previously decided to initiate the drafting process for the National Development Master Plan last month. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, speaking about the initiative, highlighted the importance of broad public participation, which will include input from political parties, associations, stakeholders, and experts.

The Master Plan is expected to be completed and implemented within the next year.