Abu Dhabi Fund for Development, ADFD, the leading national entity
for economic development aid, has commended the opening of a major
infrastructure project Maafaru International Airport, located on one of the
islands of the Noonu Atoll in the Maldives.
To support the strategic objectives of the Government of the
Maldives, ADFD contributed $52 million towards the project.
Serving the northern and eastern regions of the archipelago, the
airport was officially inaugurated by the Government of the Maldives.
Bolstering sustainable socioeconomic development in the island nation, the
airport aims to accommodate the surging numbers of tourists arriving from
various parts of the world, and drive the growth of the transportation and
tourism sectors. In addition, the new airport is set to stimulate logistical
and economic activities, and provide new job opportunities for the local
population.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohammad Saif Al Suwaidi, Director
General of ADFD, said, "ADFD views the transportation sector as a high priority
due to its economic importance and its impact on other sectors, such as
tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing. In line with its goal of supporting
growth in developing countries, the Fund has contributed to around 97 strategic
transportation projects valued at Dh14 billion in 44 countries around the world
to date."
Highlighting the Funds efforts in the Maldives, he added,
"Complying with the directives of the wise UAE leadership, ADFD contributed to
the financing of the Maafaru International Airport project that reflects its
keenness to advance continued, comprehensive, and sustainable economic
development. Our nine key ventures in the island country fall within the
framework of priorities outlined by the Government of the Maldives and support
international efforts to achieve the UNs Sustainable Development Goals."
For his part, Mohammad Aslam, Minister of National Planning and
Infrastructure of the Maldives, said that the Government of the UAE and ADFD
have played an important role in driving sustainable development in the
Maldives. He pointed out that the Fund has contributed to the financing of
several strategic projects in the country that have improved economic
conditions and the standard of living.
Aslam added that the ADFD-funded Maafaru International Airport
caters to the steady growth of inbound tourism and enhances other key sectors,
including transportation.
ADFDs scope of the project comprised the construction of a runway
approximately 2,200 metres long, hangars, and service roads to accommodate
Airbus A320-200 and Boeing 737 aircraft.
Works also included the construction of the airports main and
office buildings, a firefighting station, a control tower, and a desalination
plant. A marina for boats that serve neighbouring islands, the installation of
a generator, and the provision of maintenance equipment are some of the other
important achievements. In addition, the funding supported infrastructure works
and the establishment of power, communication, and water networks.
ADFD has enjoyed strong relations with the Government of the
Maldives since 1976. The Fund has financed nine development projects in the
country valued at approximately Dh565 million, spanning crucial socioeconomic
sectors, such as housing, communications, transport, energy, and education.
Since its inception in 1971, ADFD has funded development projects
in 95 countries, including 25 Asian nations, to the tune of Dh92 billion
through concessionary loans, government grants, and investments. The Funds
total expenditure in Asia amounts to an estimated Dh45 billion.
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