India donates equipment to Maldives Cricket Board

India has donated equipment and kits worth approximately MVR 1 million to the Maldives Cricket Board.

The equipment was handed over by the Indian High Commissioner Munu Mahawar to Maldivian Sports Minister Ahmed Mahloof in a ceremony on Saturday evening.

The handover of equipment was witnessed by Maldivian Vice President Faisal Naseem.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mahloof thanked India for its support to development of sports in Maldives. He highlighted on the benefits gained from the USD 40 million credit line granted by India for development of sports infrastructure in Maldives.

Meanwhile, Mahawar, in his speech, described the donation as a symbol of the longstanding friendship between Maldives and India.

 A video message by Indian Sports Minister Anurag Thakur was also played during the ceremony. Thakur, in his speech, expressed hope the donation will support Maldives establish a sports culture, and promote a healthy lifestyle.

India, a world leader in cricket, has increased its assistance towards the development of cricket in Maldives in recent years. The two countries have engaged in discussions regarding allowing Maldivian national teams to train at the Center for Sports Sciences in Chennai.