On Saturday, the governments of Japan and the Maldives signed an Exchange of Notes to officially confirm Japan's support for the refurbishment of the seawall in Malé. 

The ceremony for signing took place at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The agreement was signed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel representing the Maldives. The Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Ikuina Akiko, who also serves as the Special Representative of the Prime Minister, signed on behalf of the Japanese government. 

According to the agreement, Japan will allocate US$10.5 million for the refurbishment and rebuilding of the seawall infrastructure surrounding Malé. 

In his speech at the ceremony, Minister Khaleel emphasized the importance of the seawall for the city’s defense. He stated that the structure functions not just as a coastal defense but also as a representation of the enduring connection between the Maldives and Japan. 

He emphasized the seawall's function in lessening damage during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, stating that its existence aided in diminishing the effects on Malé. 

Minister Khaleel reiterated the Maldives' commitment to an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific area and thanked Japan for its ongoing collaboration at both regional and global levels.