Maldives Raises Over $2.4 Million in Cyclone Relief for Sri Lanka

The Maldives has mobilized more than $2.4 million in humanitarian aid for Sri Lanka following Cyclone Ditwah, Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel announced on Tuesday. The assistance demonstrates the strong fraternal relationship between the two neighboring nations. Minister Khaleel made the announcement during a ceremony handing over proceeds from 'Ceylon aa Eku Dhivehin,' a collaborative telethon organized by PSM and local media outlets. The televised fundraiser alone generated over $800,000 from contributions across the Maldives. The comprehensive aid package includes the telethon proceeds, private sector donations, and initial government assistance comprising $50,000 in cash and 25,000 cases of canned tuna. The total assistance will be formally handed over to the Sri Lankan government. Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Khaleel emphasized that the Maldivian people consistently respond when neighboring countries face crises. He noted that the Maldives was among the first nations to provide support under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's initiative, demonstrating that although the Maldives is small, it stands ready to help its neighbors in times of need.