President Mohamed Nasheed has declared the Maldives national flag be flown at half mast for three days from tomorrow in mourning the widespread loss of life and huge devastation in Japan caused by Friday’s earthquake and subsequent tsunami.
The President’s decision comes following the Cabinet counsel to fly the national flag at half mast as a symbol of the grief of the Maldivian government and people at the tragedy in Japan.
The Cabinet underscored that Japan has been a strong development partner of the Maldives.
The Cabinet also observed a minute of silence today to show solidarity with Japanese people.
Highlighting Japan’s assistance and support for the development of the Maldives, the President said that every Maldivian would share in the Japanese people’s sorrow during this time of great tragedy.
At today’s meeting, the Cabinet also discussed the matter of allocating islands to build luxury villas.
After discussing the matter, the Cabinet allocated Kothaifaru of Raa Atoll and Finolhas of Baa Atoll for the purpose.
The islands will be given to build luxury villas to parties that propose to build housing units in the Maldives under the government’s housing pledge.