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HULHUMALÉ: India has donated 1,200 trees to the Maldives in support of the Government’s Five Million Trees Programme, strengthening cooperation between the two countries in environmental protection.

The saplings were formally handed over during a ceremony held in Hulhumalé Phase 2 on Sunday, 8 November 2026. Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives G. Balasubramanian presented the donation, which was received by Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam on behalf of the Maldivian Government.

The ceremony was held under the theme, “A Token of Friendship from the People of India to the People of Maldives”.

Speaking at the event, Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam described the donation as another contribution to India’s support for the Maldives across various sectors. She highlighted its importance in advancing the country’s Five Million Trees Programme and efforts to create a greener Maldives.

Climate Change, Environment and Energy Minister Ali Shareef said the trees were selected from varieties suitable for the Maldivian environment. He identified the area around Aman Udhares Tower 15 in Hulhumalé Phase 2, where the trees were planted, as an area requiring additional greenery.

The minister also announced that the Maldives had already achieved its target of planting one million trees for 2026.

Indian High Commissioner G. Balasubramanian said the donated trees included fruit-bearing varieties such as mango trees, noting that India’s selection had taken the Maldives’ requirements into consideration.

Meanwhile, Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam welcomed the inclusion of fruit-bearing trees, highlighting the importance of expanding tree cover and green spaces across the islands.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu launched the Five Million Trees Programme on 5 June 2024, following his pledge to plant five million trees across the country over five years.

India’s latest contribution adds to environmental cooperation between the two neighbouring countries and supports the Maldives’ efforts to expand green spaces and strengthen environmental sustainability.