US to boost maritime security in Maldives

Male: The US announced here on Thursday that it will assist the Maldives to boost its maritime security. 

US Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Michele J Sison handed over a surveillance system to the Maldives which will be used to collect data from seven Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) installed along major shipping channels, Xinhua reported. 

At the handing over ceremony for the maritime surveillance system, the ambassador said the system also consists of shore-based receivers and transponders. 

"As the Maldives seeks to become a greater contributor to maritime security in the region, these systems will increase their capabilities and open up even further opportunities for cooperation with its international and regional partners," Sison said. 

The system will greatly enhance Maldives' maritime domain awareness and increase its contribution to regional maritime safety and security.