Chief of Defense Force Hilmy meets Sri Lankan Navy Chief

Dec 3, 2025, 4:37 AM
Chief of Defense Force Hilmy meets Sri Lankan Navy Chief

The Chief of Defense Force, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, has met with the Chief of Staff for the Sri Lankan Navy, Rear Admiral Damian Fernando.

The meeting took place at the Sri Lankan Navy Headquarters in Colombo on December 1.

"The meeting strengthened ongoing defence cooperation and longstanding ties between the two nations," the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) said in a post on social media X.

According to the Sri Lankan Navy website, the Sri Lankan army had a guard of honor for Hilmy.

The MNDF Coast Guard vessel Huravee was in Sri Lanka during Hilmy's visit. This was the Huravee's first foreign voyage to participate in the celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of the Sri Lankan Navy.

The fleet review activities were held on November 30, in conjunction with the Sri Lankan Navy Anniversary.

Delegations from 20 countries participated in the event, including vessels from the Maldives, India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Russia and Iran.

Comments

Read More

Latest News

Priority should be sale of assets to generate immediate liquidity

Former President Mohamed Nasheed urged the Maldives to prioritize selling assets for immediate liquidity rather than long-term projects like the $20 billion Rasmalé development. He argued the UAE-backed waterfront deal will not provide the urgent cash flow needed to resolve the nation's current financial crisis.

Police seek charges against six men for assaulting officers

Maldives Police are seeking charges against six men for assaulting officers during a drug search in Maafushi. Five suspects remain in custody, while one was released by the court. Authorities have also appealed the release of a seventh individual involved in the August incident.

No tax concessions for UAE developer in Rasmale' project

The Maldives government awarded the $20 billion Rasmalé project to UAE developer Eagle Hills without tax concessions or exemptions. All business activities will follow national tax laws, with payments processed through local banks. The state expects over $11 billion in revenue from sales fees and commercial revenue sharing.

No details on size and value of land given to Dubai company

The Maldives government signed a $20 billion deal with Dubai’s Eagle Hills to develop a massive integrated zone in Rasmalé. While the project promises 54,000 jobs and housing, officials have withheld specific details regarding the land size, valuation, and lease terms. The area is expected to operate as a special economic township.

Rasmale' investor to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumale'

The Maldivian government has partnered with UAE-based Eagle Hills to build 5,000 housing units in Hulhumalé using a contractor financing model. This agreement follows a massive $20 billion deal for the firm to develop Rasmalé. The project will feature luxury residences and a world-class marina without impacting existing housing plans.

AMFA concludes first Junior Lifeguard Program

The Australia Maldives Friendship Association successfully completed its first Junior Lifeguard Program pilot in Thulusdhoo and Fuvahmulah. The initiative trained youth in water safety and rescue skills to enhance maritime security. AMFA plans to expand the program across the Maldives by 2027 through partnerships with local councils.

Project to build international bowling arena in Hulhumale'

A private company has been awarded a MVR 20 million project to build the Maldives' first international-standard bowling arena in Hulhumale'. The two-story facility aims to host global competitions, though the direct award process lacks an official statement. This project is part of a broader plan to develop world-class sports infrastructure.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox