Japan has officially transferred the patrol craft TATEYAMA to the Maldives Customs Service, further expanding maritime cooperation between the two nations.
The handover ceremony took place on Thursday, attended by Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan, Japanese Ambassador Ishigami Rumiko, and senior officials from both governments.
According to Japan, the vessel will strengthen Maldives Customs’ ability to monitor maritime activity, curb illicit trade, and improve overall border security operations.
This handover follows Japan’s earlier donation of two harbour crafts to the Maldives National Defence Force this year, aimed at supporting Coast Guard operations.