Ministry Denies Reports of Favouring Foreign Partner in Thilafushi Port Project

The Ministry of Economic Development, Transport and Trade has denied media reports alleging that the government favoured a particular foreign partner in awarding the new international commercial port development project in Thilafushi.

In a statement, the Ministry said the project was awarded in accordance with the government’s standards for major infrastructure projects and in compliance with Maldivian law.

The decision was based solely on the Maldives’ long-term development priorities and was not influenced by changes in diplomatic relations or the government’s position toward any foreign partner, the Ministry said.

The Ministry also stressed that the development, ownership and full operational control of Thilafushi Port would remain with the Maldivian government.

It added that the Maldives’ independence and sovereignty were non-negotiable, and that no foreign party—past or present—had the authority to dictate the country’s infrastructure decisions beyond what is permitted by law and the national interest.

“Thilafushi Port is a project that will serve the long-term prosperity of the Maldivian people and the nation. This project was awarded through the government’s legal procedures, and it should not be interpreted as reflecting our stance toward any of our partners. The Maldives always appreciates the assistance of all its partners,” Economic Development Minister Mohamed Saeed said.

The Ministry concluded that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s “Maldives First” foreign policy seeks to maintain constructive relations with all international partners while remaining firmly grounded in the Maldives’ sovereignty and national interest.