Iruthisham Adam, Maldives’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Abdulla Rafiu, Minister of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness, expressed gratitude to India for its generous support. They highlighted the positive impact on Maldivian communities following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two countries. The MoUs involve equipment support for fitness and recreation centers in 42 islands through India’s grant assistance scheme, High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP).
Minister Iruthisham, representing the Maldives, and G. Balasubramanian, the Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, signed the MoUs. Minister Rafiu signed on behalf of the Implementing Agency. The initiative aims to invest in the health and well-being of island communities by providing fitness equipment. It also focuses on promoting active lifestyles, especially for women and girls, to enhance empowerment, equality, and social inclusion.
During the ceremony, Minister Iruthisham emphasized the significance of the fitness and recreation centers in promoting healthy living. Minister Rafiu highlighted that these centers would serve as community spaces encouraging healthy lifestyles and social interactions. The project is expected to offer more opportunities for people, particularly women and youth, to engage in sports and recreational activities, ultimately enhancing the health and resilience of island communities.
