Govt considers proposing to take no-confidence vote against PG
Press Secretary of the President, Mohamed Zuhair has said that the government is considering on proposing the Peoples’ Majlis to take a no-confidence vote against the Prosecutor General (PG) Ahmed Muizz. Zuhair said that a team of Maldives Police Service met with the Prosecutor General, in view of the charges raised by the Police against former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s son GassanMaumoon and the verdict of the Ciminal Court ruling the his arrest unlawful, to seek his interpretation of the Article 49 of the Constitution. He said that the Prosecutor General Muizz did not cooperate with the Police team.

No-confidence vote against PG will fail- Opposition
The Opposition members of the Peoples’ Majlis have stated that they would do their utmost to fail the no-confidence vote against the Prosecutor General Ahmed Muizz that the government is considering to propose the Peoples’ Majlis. In a press conference held at the opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Deputy Leader of the party Ibrahim Shareef said that DRP would not let the government to win the no-confidence vote against PG Muizz in claims of his failure to cooperate with the Maldives Police Service in relation to the case of the son of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, GassanMaumoon. The new political party founded by former President Gayoom, Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) also held a press conference in reference to the decision of the government to propose the Majlis to take a no-confidence vote against Muizz, Interim Spokesperson of the party and GalolhuDhekunu MP Ahmed Mahloof said that the opposition will try to back and support the Prosecutor General no matter how much the government tries to intimidate and threaten the PG. Mahloof said that it is unreasonable and foolhardy of the government to believe that the PG has to back the government even in matters of outright opposition to the Constitution. He said that it is undemocratic of the government to intimidate the PG by threatening him by taking a no-confidence vote against him.

Cabinet Requests AG for Prompt Compilation of Revised Prosecution Guidelines
The cabinet has yesterday asked the Attorney General about the progress of the revision to the Prosecution Guidelines of criminal cases in the Maldives. The cabinet requested that the compilation be finished soon, and the Prosecutor General be provided with the revised guidelines, as stated in the Constitution. At yesterday’s meeting, the cabinet also approved a country slogan and logo, after deliberations on a paper presented by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation. ‘Maldives – Always Natural’ will replace the old slogan, ‘Maldives – the sunny side of life.’ The new slogan and logo were designed to represent all industrial sectors of the country, such as fishing and energy, and not just tourism.

Politicized Judiciary Threatens Democratic Transition- MDP
The acting Chairperson of the Maldives Democratic Party (MDP), MoosaManik MP, spoke yesterday of the rising frustration in Maldivian society at the increasingly blatant collusion between politicians loyal to the former autocratic President, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, and senior members of the judiciary – most of whom were appointed by Gayoom during his thirty years in power.

Dhiraagu IPO Collection Centre established at ChaandhaaneeMagu
Dhiraagu IPO Collection Centre has been setup at ChaandhaaneeMagu, opposite the National Museum for the convenience of share applicants as an additional serving point besides all the Bank of Maldives branches. The Dhiraagu IPO share subscription period will open on the 25th October and will close on the 30th November, 2011. Dhiraagu IPO Collection Centre will be in operation throughout this. Dhiraagu informed that all potential investors may submit their applications to Dhiraagu IPO Collection Centre or any Bank of Maldives branch across the nation.

New Japanese ambassador presents his credentials to the president
Nobuhito Hobo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka and to the Republic of Maldives arrived in Sri Lanka on 16th October 2011. Ambassador Hobo succeeds Ambassador Kunio Takahashi who left Sri Lanka on 9th October. Ambassador Hobo presented his credentials to President Mohamed Nasheed, on 23rd October 2011.

Ennahda's headquarters in Tunis October 25, 2011/Zohra Bensemra)
More democracy is bringing more political Islam in the countries of the Arab Spring, but Islamist statements about sharia or religion in politics are only rough indicators of what the real effect might be. The strong showing of Tunisia’s moderate Islamists in Sunday’s election and a promise by Libyan National Transitional Council leader Mustafa Abdel Jalil to uphold sharia have highlighted the bigger role Islamists will play after the fall of the autocrats who opposed them. These Islamists must now work out how to integrate more Islam into new democratic systems. Many terms used in the debate are ambiguous and some, especially the concept of sharia, are often misunderstood by non-Muslims.

Thai PM tells Bangkok to move belongings to safety
Millions of jittery Bangkok residents were warned Friday to move their belongings higher up after the government admitted it was failing in its battle to hold back huge floods just north of the city. In a desperate attempt to drain the sea of muddy water, the authorities have opened all of Bangkok's sluice gates to allow the floods to flow through canals and rivers in the low-lying capital and into the Gulf of Thailand.

Gadhafi buried secretly in Libyan desert
TRIPOLI, Libya — Former Libyan strongman Moammar Gadhafi was secretly buried in a desert grave Tuesday, officials said, ending a four-day spectacle in which his bloody body was displayed to a public largely overjoyed about his ignominious end after decades of repressive rule.

                 25 October 2011 | Tuesday                 

CJ expresses concern on the continuous defamations made against Judges

Chief Justice Ahmed Faiz has stated that the continuous onslaught of defamations made against the Judges and the Judiciary of Maldives is a serious concern. In view of the recent criticism of the Supreme Court Judges and the Judiciary by President Mohamed Nasheed’s Special Advisor Ibrahim Ismail instigating the public to rise against the Judges, Chief Justice Faiz asserted that it a grave concern that the judges are intimidated and constraining the judiciary from dispensing its responsibilities without fear or favor through coercion and life threats. Faiz said that the independency, removal of all undue influences and the protection of the honour of the judges are from the most important aspects in in strengthening judicial integrity, capacity and professionalism. Faiz said that it is important to open knowledge based debates on the verdicts of the courts of law as is done in the developed countries of the world. He said that intimidation and fear mongering are against the tenets of democracy and that such violent means are never a solution to the problems within any independent institution. Furthermore, the Chief Justice said that the Supreme Court welcomes all assessments and opinions to strengthen judicial integrity and professionalism.

MoosaManik expresses hopes on reforming the Judiciary
Interim Chairperson of the ruling party, MoosaManik (Reeko) has expressed hopes on reforming the judiciary of the Maldives. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, MoosaManik said that the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) would not stop the protests until an independent and just judiciary is established in the country. “We are very sure that the judiciary can also be reformed. To achieve this we are out here in the streets. And we would not stop until an independent and just judiciary is not established,” he said. MoosaManik said that it is unconstitutional to take steps against the people for criticizing the Judiciary of the Maldives. He said that there is no institution that can be free from criticism. “We see in the Judiciary today is what we experienced in the former regime. We cannot tolerate the judiciary to punish every one who finds faults with the Judiciary. This cannot be done,” he said.

MDP files case against Umar Naseer for publicly commenting on a sub-judice case
In view of the statement of Umar Naseer on Friday evening that Thimarafushi MP Ahmed Mustafa will lose his seat at the Peoples’ Majlis, a letter has been sent to the Prosecutor General requesting the Prosecutor General Ahmed Muizz to investigate the issue of Umar Naseer publicly commenting on the sub-judice case against Mustafa active in the Supreme Court. The letter signed by 49 members of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) addressed to the PG said that the comments of Umar Naseer predicting the how the Supreme Court would rule against Mustafa in the case of corruption filed against him in the Court by Umar Naseer obstructs the implementation of justice. “We request you to investigate the matter and find the person or people who are assuring Umar Naseer that the court will deliver the verdict against Mustafa. Umar Naseer has been reiterating this statement in different podiums on a number of days. This case should be investigated since the people of Thimarafushi are very concerned regarding the fate of the MP Mustafa who represents about 5000 people,” the letter signed under Ibrahim Rasheed, Ma. Tomatoge read. Meanwhile, Umar Naseer said that he is sure that the verdict will be delivered against Mustafa and he would lose his seat in the Majlis.

Peoples’ Majlis invites Indian PM to address the Majlis
Speaker of the Peoples’ Majlis, Abdullah Shahid has sent a formal invitation letter to the Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to address the Majlis during his official visit to Maldives. Shahid mentioned in the letter that the proposal to invite Dr. Manmohan Singh was approved unanimously in the Majlis and that the Indian Prime Minister’s address in the Majlis would be means to strengthen the ties between the two countries. Shahid noted that the Indian Prime Minister would be the first foreign dignitary to address the Peoples’ Majlis and that this would increase the connectivity between India and Maldives.

Will facilitate major developments in all regions of the country- MDP
Parliamentary group of the ruling party, Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has said that the MDP led government will make every possible effort to facilitate major developments in all regions of Maldives. Highlighting on the various developmental projects of the government currently underway in Addu City and Fuahmulah in preparation for the upcoming SAARC Summit, MDP said that the government is capable of developing all of the parts of the country in a small period just as it is developing Addu City and Fuahmulah. Regarding the pre-SAARC Summit work currently being carried out in Addu City and Fuvahmulah, the MDP Parliamentary group said that Addu will be transformed in to a full-fledged city, through these preparations for the SAARC Summit, and that in Fuvahmulah, a new airport and more roads are being constructed, erosion sites are being conserved and a cricket stadium is being built for the Summit. The Parliamentary Group members who are currently in Addu City said that these development projects are not only restricted to Addu City and Fuahmulah but similar projects would be facilitated by the government throughout Maldives.

New Japanese Ambassador Presents Credentials to the President
New Ambassador of Japan accredited to the Maldives, Nobuhito Hobo has presented his Letter of Credence to President Mohamed Nasheed yesterday. At the ceremony held at the President’s Office this afternoon, the President congratulated the newly appointed Ambassador and discussed with the Ambassador, ways to further strengthen the close bilateral relations between the two countries. President Nasheed noted the many areas of development, in which the Japanese Government continue to assist the Maldives, and expressed his gratitude for their contribution in the Maldives’ graduation from the status of least developed country to middle-income status. At the meeting, the Ambassador expressed his gratitude to the President for the post tsunami aid provided to Japan from the Maldives, following the tsunami that hit Japan earlier this year.

TMA Flying Green fund launched

Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) has announced the official launch of its charitable fund: “Flying Green.” In typical TMA style the “Flying Green Fund” started very quietly to build on the 1st April 2011, from this date the Board of Directors decided to donate directly from the company one dollar for every return passenger transfer to the “Flying Green Fund.”

PM to attend SAARC meet
KATHMANDU: Prime Minister Baburam Bhattarai is going to Maldives early next month to take part in the SAARC Summit. The summit is being held in Addu city of Maldives from November 10-11, according to sources at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The officials said that the PM’s delegation would be much smaller in comparison to his predecessors due to his austerity policy and Maldivian government’s request to SAARC countries to stick to small delegation.

Tapping the Chinese market with Maldivian experience
Viluxur Holidays with Sri Lankan roots
Any company that has more than two dozen workers is bound to draw not only a few stares but also a lot of interest in the tiny Maldives.“We have 23 staff… and that is big by Maldivian standards,” smiles Shafraz Fazley, Managing Director of Viluxur Holidays, a destination management company that exclusively handles the Chinese market, during an interview in Colombo. The company is not only mega in a small place but has an international staff and founded by Fazley, a young and energetic Sri Lankan who has turned out to become a business success story in the past seven years spent in the Maldives.

Splendidasia Maldives Participating in China International Travel Market (CITM) 2011 at Stand 3C22
Splendid Asia is a prominent Inbound Tour Operator based in Malé, Maldives in business for the last 5+ years working with major resorts, hotels as contractual partners and offer full inbound tour operation services from leisure to corporate travel, private island stays, cruising, island tours, excursions, diving and many more. During CITM Splendidasia will Update customers with the latest Maldives destination information, discuss new and existing products, offers and, select possible Maldives FAM trip participants for 2012.

Introducing the Ocean Pearls at Jumeirah Dhevanafushi Maldives
Offering its own distinctive identity and atmosphere, the Ocean Pearls offer a unique over-water concept where guests feel as though they are truly in the middle of the ocean. Each Ocean Revive (270m2) and Ocean Sanctuary (340m2) villa has a tall living room with unobstructed views out over the ocean. Guests can relax outdoors in their sunken bathtub on the deck with direct access to their private pool, or bask on their own sun deck with a few steps leading them directly into the Indian Ocean. The Ocean Pearls offer enough facilities to keep guests entertained, with a shared infinity pool, bar, restaurant, in-house dining, library and spa treatment rooms; guests who wish to explore the main island and the region have also full access to the facilities and a 24/7 boat limousine service at their disposal.

                 23 October 2011 | Sunday                 

Ambassador of Iran to the Maldives Pays Courtesy Call on President Mohamed Nasheed
President Mohamed Nasheed has today met with the Ambassador of Iran to the Maldives, Mahmoud Rahimi Gorji. The meeting was held this afternoon at the President’s Office. Discussions were mainly focused on ways to enhance the close bilateral relations that exist between the Maldives and Iran. At the meeting, President Mohamed Nasheed also explored possibilities of increasing Iran’s assistance to the Maldives. The meeting was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Naseem and Chief of Staff at the President’s Office Ahmed Mausoom.

New Japanese Ambassador Presents Credentials to the President
New Ambassador of Japan accredited to the Maldives, Nobuhito Hobo has presented his Letter of Credence to President Mohamed Nasheed today. At the ceremony held at the President’s Office this afternoon, the President congratulated the newly appointed Ambassador and discussed with the Ambassador, ways to further strengthen the close bilateral relations between the two countries. President Nasheed noted the many areas of development, in which the Japanese Government continue to assist the Maldives, and expressed his gratitude for their contribution in the Maldives’ graduation from the status of least developed country to middle-income status. At the meeting, the Ambassador expressed his gratitude to the President for the post tsunami aid provided to Japan from the Maldives, following the tsunami that hit Japan earlier this year.

President Sends Condolences to Saudi King
President Mohamed Nasheed has sent a message of condolence to King of Saudi Arabia Khadim Al-Haramain Al-Sharifain Al-Malek Abdullah bin Abdul Aziz Al-Saud, following the death of Prince Sultan bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud. President Nasheed's message to King Abdulla reads as follows:
Quote:
I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing away of Prince Sultan bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud. Prince Sultan’s service to Saudi Arabia, in his role as the First Deputy Prime Minister and the Minister of Defence and Aviation, will be remembered with great fondness and admiration. On this sad occasion of grief, the Government and the people of the Maldives join me in extending our profound sympathy to Your Majesty, the Government and the people of Saudi Arabia.
Unquote.

Indian Navy aircraft patrols Maldivian waters
Maldives—India has deployed another naval Dornier aircraft to the Maldives to help in anti-piracy patrols and maritime surveillance in the area, media reports say. The Times of India reported that the aircraft, deployed weeks before the SAARC Summit, would operate from Male and other places of the country from today for at least three weeks. A Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) spokesperson said the aircraft would operate jointly with the Maldivian Coastguard. “We’ve carried out joint operations in the past. This isn’t an operation carried out for the SAARC Summit. [The aircraft] will search the Maldivian waters jointly with our Coastguard vessels,” the official said. The armed forces jointly carried out an operation with the Indian Navy in April to monitor the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Maldives.—Agency

Sheraton Maldives Chef’s shares secrets and tips of popular signature dishes
’s quite often, we wonder how a particular dish was made or why it tastes so good or even whether if we can try it ourselves once we go back home. But in most times, we are left pondering forever to the answers of our assumptions. The Chef’s at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa have literally stepped out of the kitchen for the ‘Cooking Class’ to show teach how to master their cooking skills from preparing signature dishes to tips behind making a perfect barbeque. Guests of this master class will also have the opportunity to dine with the Executive Chef of Sheraton Maldives, Mr. Sven Cepon himself at the ‘Chef’s Table’ where he shares his secrets and tips as he personally guides the guests through the special set menu prepared for the lunch. Speaking regarding the new classes, Chef Sven said that “Many of our guests are very curious by our creations and have a lot of questions on how certain dishes are made and the ingredients used. It’s for this reason that you’ll see the culinary team and I mingling and talking to the guests during their dining experience. From these interactions, we thought that something like this would be great, so that we get to share our experience and create memorable connections with our guests”. The Chef’s Table is scheduled every other Thursday from 12pm to 2pm while the Cooking Class is scheduled every other Thursday from 11am to 1:30pm. For more details about Sheraton Maldives, visit sheraton.com/maldives.

AJC Welcomes UN Human Rights Report on Iran
AJC welcomed the report on Iran's human rights violations submitted to the UN this week by the Special Rapporteur, Ahmed Shaheed. Shaheed, of the Maldives, was appointed to his post on August 1, 2011, with a mandate to investigate the human rights situation in Iran. Tellingly, the Iranian government has not yet given him permission to enter the country. "Even a cursory reading of Mr. Shaheed's report, which was transmitted to the 193 members of the UN General Assembly by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, is a devastating indictment of what's going on in Iran," said AJC Executive Director David Harris. "He has managed to collect important data on the treatment of those who dare to challenge the suffocating doctrine of Iran's leaders, including political dissidents, environmental activists, students, journalists, cultural figures, women, and lawyers."

Floating Golf Paradise Planned for Maldives
Tourism may well get a boost in the Maldives thanks to the planned construction of the world's first floating island golf paradise. The Maldives will be the location of the world’s first floating golf course. The small island nation is hosting this ambitious project with a development cost estimated at $500 million. The golf course will be comprised of three linked islands with a conservation center as well as 200 villas spread over 45 smaller private islands. It goes without saying that a floating golf course would naturally have some pretty impressive features and this one doesn’t fail to impress. For instance, traveling from island to island may seem difficult, but it’s made easy thanks to a series of underwater tunnels that will connect the islands via a central clubhouse, allowing golfers to travel with ease underwater. Another network will connect the various holes throughout the floating course, as well as provide access to the hotels scattered around the complex. The floating golf course is being design by Waterstudio.NL. and engineered by Dutch Docklands with the Troon Golf Company taking over operational responsibilities once the course becomes operational in 2013.

                 22 October 2011 | Saturday                 

President’s Weekly Radio Address: President Urges the Three Branches of Power to Work Democratically
Reflecting on yesterday’s demonstrations held by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), President Mohamed Nasheed has said that all independent government agencies should regard this as an opportunity to change for better governance. The President made this statement in his radio address delivered this morning, pointing out that members of MDP were expressing their disapproval towards the judiciary of the country, in yesterday’s protests. Speaking in this regard, the President urged the judiciary, the legislature and the executive bodies to carry out their activities according to democratic values. In today’s Radio Address, President Nasheed highlighted the opening of “Hubasaana 2011” in Addu City yesterday, a cultural festival exhibiting Maldivian handicraft. The President noted that this was the first of three festivals, and that the second will be held from the 8th to 10th of November at the SAARC Convention Centre, especially for the SAARC delegates. The third festival is planned to be held in Hanimaadhoo from the 1st to 3rd of December this year. Further, Presidents Nasheed said that the main purpose of holding a cultural festival was to promote Maldivian craft skills, to uphold and encourage Maldivian customs and traditions, and to facilitate good market opportunities for the small and medium enterprises in the country. The President also noted that this festival would provide the opportunity for a good market in the tourism industry.

Maldives did not take security help because of MNDF’s incapability- Ibrahim Didi
Commanding Officer of Southern Area, Brigadier General Ibrahim Didi has said that the support of foreign countries to ensure foolproof security during the 17th SAARC Summit to be held in Addu Atoll on November 10-11 was not requested from the foreign countries because the Armed Forces of Maldives are not capable enough to monitor the security of the summit. Speaking to the media, Ibrahim Didi said that the support was requested to strengthen the ties between Maldives and the foreign countries. Brigadier General Ibrahim Didi said that the support of Sri Lankan army does not mean that the internal security is left at the sole hands of the foreign party. He said that there is no problem in such assistance under the military understanding between the two countries. “I do not believe that this assistance mean that it is leaving the independency and sovereignty of the nation at the hands of foreign parties. This just shows nothing but the friendly relations between the two countries,” he said.

Minister Shifa meets the Teaching Excellence Awardees of 2011
Minister of Education Madam Shifa Mohamed met the Teaching Excellence Awardees of 2011. These awards are aimed at recognizing outstanding teachers, heads of schools and other staff who make exceptional contributions to the schools in the Maldives. This year 7 awardees were nominated under 7 categories. They are the Four Seasons Resorts Award for Teacher of the Year in a Pre-school awarded to AmathullahShakeeb of MadhrasathulAmeer Ahmed, the ADK Group Award for Leading Teacher of the Year in a Primary School awarded to Moomina Anwar (Shiyama Anwar) of Kalaafaanu School, the Orchid Holdings Pvt. Ltd. Award for Special Educational Needs Teacher of the Year awarded to MariyamShathrathShakir of Imaduddin School, the Media Net Digital Award for Teacher of the Year in a Primary School awarded to Aishath Ali Didi of Kalaafaanu School, the Villa College Award for Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School awarded to Mohamed Abdullah Rafeeq of Gn. Atoll Education Centre, the Alia Investments Award for Leading Teacher of the Year in a Secondary School awarded to Ashraf Ali of Dharumavantha School, and the Island Aviation Award for Support Staff of the Year awarded to ShujauSaleem of Jamaluddin School. The Deputy Ministers Dr. Abdulla Nazeer and Ibrahim Rasheed, the Permanent Secretary Dr. Aamaal Ali, and Director FathimathAzza attended the meeting that was held at the Ministry of Education on 10 October 2011, Monday. The Minister congratulated the awardees and encouraged them to continue the excellent services in their work.

MACL Institute Commences Basic Air Traffic Control Course
On 16thOctobe, MACL Institute has started the first Basic Air Traffic Control Course to be held in the Maldives. A small function was held in Hulhule to mark the commencement of the course. The function was attended by senior officials of MACL, MNDF, course instructors and the participants. The 8 week course will be conducted at MACL premises in Hulhule. A total of 10 participants including 6 from MACL and 4 from MNDF are enrolled to pursue the basic ATC course, which has an objective to provide the initial training required for the ATC controllers. The training will be delivered by industrial experts of Scandinavian ATC, AB. At the end of the course the successful participants will receive a CAD approved certificate

Jumeirah Dhevanafushi announces the opening of the Ocean Pearls
Jumeirah Dhevanafushi, Jumeirah Group's first property on the Maldives and an exclusive all-suite resort, announces the opening of the Ocean Pearls, a cluster of water villas located 800 metres from the main island, suspended on platforms above the sea and entirely self dependent.

                 20 October 2011 | Thursday                 

Enough has been said about Gayoom- Nasheed

-People have forgotten the banishment of Sultans, Shamsuddin and Hassan Izzuddin
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that he has talked and written enough about former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom and that he does not want to make any further comments regarding the former President. The President said this, at a press conference held yesterday, while answering questions from journalists, on ongoing political issues in the Maldives.

Majlis passes proposal to invite Indian PM
The Peoples’ Majlis has passed a proposal to invite Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to address the Majlis during his official visit to Maldives. The 65 member who were present at yesterday’s session of the Majlis unanimously voted in favour of the proposal.  In view of the unanimous agreement of the MPs on the proposal, Speaker of the Majlis, Abdullah Shahid said that the work to offer a warm welcome Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will be commenced as requested by the MPs during the debate on the proposal. He also said that the official documents of the invitation would be sent to the Indian government shortly. Even though some MPs earlier depicted the neighbouring India to be a country trying to invade other countries through financial influence, yesterday the same MPs were apparently competing each other in praising India and described the country as being the biggest democracy in the world. Dictator Gayoom’s parliamentary Group formerly who spoke in the Parliament saying India is a country who will slaughter innocent people fr 20 paisa for political reasons and Indian Government is barbaric, yesterday in the Parliament India and Indian Government so heavily and praised Indian Government , trying to tell that there is no better country and better Government in the whole world.

President Holds Press Conference to Create Public Awareness on SAARC Summit
President Mohamed Nasheed has held a Press Conference to create public awareness and familiarize the press on programmes and preparations underway for SAARC Summit. Meeting with the press today, President Mohamed Nasheed spoke on decisions taken to hold this year’s SAARC Summit in Addu, which will be Addu’s first opportunity to host a SAARC Summit.

Japanese Vice Minister of Internal Affairs and Communication pays Courtesy Call on the President
Vice Minister of Internal Affairs and Communication of Japan, Takashi　Morita, has yesterday paid a courtesy call on President Mohamed Nasheed. At the meeting held at the President’s Office, the Vice Minister expressed his gratitude for post tsunami aid provided to Japan from the Maldives’. He also noted the necessity to develope solar energy power systems, and briefed the President on a number of works being undertaken in the development of such systems, in Japan. President Nasheed conveyed his appreciation to the Japanese government for their contribution in the different areas of development in the Maldives. Further, the President noted that the Japanese would be an observer at the 17th SAARC Summit, and expressed his gratitude for Japan’s many contributions to the South Asian Development Funds.

Member of the 11th Standing Committee of CPPCC Meets With President Nasheed
Member of the 11th Standing Committee of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and Director of Jintai Museum Yuan Xikun has met President Mohamed Nasheed yesterday. Discussions held at the President’s Office this afternoon were focused on articulating voices for the vulnerable countries facing the challenges of global warming and contributive efforts made by China and Maldives towards a transition to climate neutrality. During the meeting Yuan Xikun commended President Nasheed’s for his vision towards environmental leadership through his actions and influence. At the meeting, Yuan Xikun remarked on providing Chinese assistance to facilitate the development of Maldives. During the meeting, Yuan Xikun and his delegation presented national gifts by the Chinese government to President Nasheed.

New Chinese Ambassador Presents Credentials to the President
New Ambassador of China accredited to the Maldives, Yu Hongyao has presented his Letter of Credence to President Mohamed Nasheed yesterday. At the ceremony held at the President’s Office Wednesday morning, the President congratulated the newly appointed Ambassador and discussed with the Ambassador, ways to further strengthen the long-established bilateral relations between both countries. The Ambassador noted the increase in numbers of Chinese tourists visiting Maldives, and the Chinese entrepreneurs’ interest in investing in the Maldives. President Nasheed stated that the Chinese government’s policies taken on issues of the environment and climate change were very encouraging. He also expressed his gratitude to the Chinese government for their assistance provided in the preparations of the SAARC Summit, and in other areas of development in the country.

New Afghan Ambassador Presents Credentials to the President
New Ambassador of Afghanistan accredited to the Maldives, Dr. NangyalaiTarzi has presented his Letter of Credence to President Mohamed Nasheed yesterday. At the ceremony held at the President’s Office Wednesday morning, the President congratulated the newly appointed Ambassador and discussed with the Ambassador on ways to promote bilateral relations between both countries, and the preparations for the upcoming SAARC Summit.

Popular Chinese environmentalist visits Ghiyasudheen Intn’l School
Yuan Xikun, the prominent Chinese artist, curator, environmentalist and the founder of the very first private museum in China: Jin Tai Art Museum in Beijing visited Ghiyasudheen International School yesterday.

Underwater Restaurant with Acrylic Windows from Reynolds Polymer Technology, Inc. Opens in Maldives
The restaurant is part of a new dining experience at the Anantara Kihavah Villas in the Maldives. Featuring R-Cast acrylic windows, the restaurant was lowered onto the seabed to give diners a close-up view of marine life surrounding the reef and the 1,000 foot deep channel only three feet away from the end of the restaurant.

French businessman 'to pay all burqa fines'

Rachid Nekkaz (pictured) has set up a million euro fund to pay fines for women who choose to wear the full Islamic veil in countries, like France, where it is against the law to do so in public. A French businessman has set up a fund to pay fines for women who wear Islamic veils or the burqa in public “in whatever country in the world that bans women from doing so”. Rachid Nekkaz, 38, a real-estate businessman based in Paris, travelled to Belgium on Wednesday to pay 100 euros for two women fined in the first case in the country since the law was adopted there. “I’m in favour of a law to convict a husband who forces a women to wear the niqab and who forces her to stay at home. But I’m also for a law that lets these women move freely in the streets, because freedom of movement, just like any freedom, is the most fundamental thing in a democracy, ” Nekkaz told reporters outside the courtroom in Belgium.

                 18 October 2011 | Tuesday                 

If Opposition are sincere they would summon Health Minister more than Inaz- Colonel

Nolhivaram MP, Mohamed Nasheed (Colonel) has stated that “the opposition would summon Health Minister Dr. Aminath Jameel to the Peoples’ Majlis more than they summon Finance Minister Ahmed Inaz, if they are as sincere as they claim.” Speaking at a program telecasted by VTV, Colonel said that the opposition wants to take a no-confidence vote against Minister Inaz to obstruct the development projects commenced by the government. In view of the statements by the opposition and the President Mohamed Nasheed himself underscoring the importance of developing the health care services, Colonel highlighted that it was the opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) who voted in favour of Health Minister Dr. Aminath Jameel during her reappointment. Colonel called the MPs to summon Dr. Aminath Jameel at least twice per day to make her accountable for the present deterioration of the health sector of the country.

Cabinet Decides to Begin Transition to Solar Power Systems
The cabinet has yesterday decided to begin the transition from fuel power systems to solar power systems, by making solar power investments in islands with smaller, inefficient power systems. The cabinet made this decision after deliberations on the matter at today’s cabinet meeting. At the meeting, members noted that solar power systems would be more cost effective in islands with smaller power systems, where the cost of power generation is very high despite the usage being less.

VP Departs to China
Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed and Spouse of the Vice President Madam Ilham Hussain have departed on an official visit to China. The Vice President’s visit to China is on an invitation from the Sichuan province to deliver a lecture at the Sichuan University. He will also attend and deliver a speech at a Western China business meeting. During his visit, Dr Waheed will meet with Chinese investors and brief them on the investment opportunities in the Maldives. Prior to his departure, the Vice President met with the local media.

India to base anti-piracy patrol plane in Maldives

(Hindustan Times): India will base a Dornier maritime patrol aircraft in the Maldives from Wednesday to carry out surveillance of the Indian Ocean island nation's exclusive economic zone and also maintain an anti-piracy vigil in its waters. The Indian Navy plane will operate from Male and will stay there for three weeks, a navy spokesperson said here Tuesday.

Brand new flagship Lounge at INIA: Koimala Executive Lounge

Confident and well appointed, the new, exclusive Executive Lounge at the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport has surfaced a brand new spirit in premiership indeed “fit for a king.” The opening of the Koimala Executive Lounge, shall offer panoramic views of the airport runways, TV, plasma screens, café’, refreshments, wi-fi facilities and workstations, for leisure passengers and the sit out on the deck of the Maldivian feel.

Hilton Maldives Breaks Local Record to Save Lives
Over 130 staff members at Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa generously donated blood to the local community this week. The initiative was set out to meet the increasing demand for donated blood, and has set a new Maldives record for most blood donated in a single day. A total of 59.6 litres of blood was donated from 132 team members. “This achievement falls within our pioneering role in serving the local community and the high turnout at the donation centre expresses our teams care and commitment for others, “says General Manager Jean-Sebastien Kling.

The Green President
Almost exactly one year ago, I sat with President Nasheed of the Maldives in the shade of coconut palms on the blue lagoon island of Soneva Fushi, where the sustainable tourism resort group Six Senses was founded in 1995. I listened intently as he explained his vision of the Maldives becoming the world’s first fossil fuel free country. I returned to the Maldives last week to join a handful of sustainability leaders and visionaries, including President Nasheed himself, for the SLOWLIFE symposium, hosted by Six Senses The soft spoken and handsome 44-year-old Nasheed has risen onto the world stage by calling for urgent global action to address climate change through bold moves to embrace renewable energy–now. If he succeeds in making the Maldives a carbon-neutral country by 2020, as he has declared, this tiny island nation and its big thinking leader (who was jailed and banished to a remote island by the previous autocratic ruler for leading a democracy campaign) may go down in history as the country that signaled the turning point when the world finally began to move away from a near total dependence on pumping crude for energy.

Newfound Reason to Visit The Maldives
While many visit the Maldives for its pristine beaches and breathtaking underwater beauty, a group of bloggers have a newfound reason to visit the Maldives. Bloggers behind two of Asia’s popular food blogs ‘Cumi & Ciki’ and ‘A lil fat monkey’ has visited the Maldives recently to spend a little bit more time in the restaurants and bar’s besides snorkeling and soaking up some sun. Having spent a couple days quizzing the Chef’s and Bartenders, besides trying out number of drinks and delicacies at Sheraton Maldives and W Maldives, the food bloggers were truly amazed by what Maldives had to offer.

kate bosworth raises funds
Kate Bosworth and celebrity friends hit the Maldives for a five-day retreat to raise funds for three marine charities. Kate Bosworth, Helena Christensen and Melanie Laurent were amongst those who joined water sports professionals and marine conservationists for the eco-focused fundraiser at Six Senses Laamu resort in the Maldives. The event featured workshops and debates on marine conservation issues, as well as lessons in wind surfing and stand-up paddleboard given by sports professionals such as Australian surfer Layne Beachley. At night, British singer Beth Orton, Rami Jaffee of the Foo Fighters and local Maldivian musicians provided entertainment.

                 18 October 2011 | Tuesday                 

Saddening that longstanding schools did not achieve what Villa Int’l High School achieved- Gasim
Jumhooree Party Leader and chairman of of Villa Group Gasim Ibrahim has said that the it is saddening that long-standing schools of the nation have not achieved what a new school such as Villa International High School has achieved today. Founder of Villa College and Villa International High School, the local philanthropist, Gasim Ibrahim said this while speaking at the annual prize day hosted at Dharubaaruge convention center. Gasim said that the long-standing schools did not achieve what Villa International School achieved even though they have been established since many years is because they have not worked as hard as Villa International High School. “This is the result of the lack of balance between the hard work of the parents and studentsand the work carried out by the schools. These schools have not been working as efficiently as they should be working. This is in deed very very saddening. It is high time for the public and the government to work hard to produce educated generations. And in this lies the future of this nation,” he said.

Higher Subsidy has been paid to Fishermen by Cutting down Diesel Duty-President
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that a higher subsidy has been paid for fishermen, than the amount finalised by the parliament, by cutting down 50% from duty taken on diesel. The President made this statement while speaking at the ceremony held in NoonuKen’dhikulhudhooSunday evening, to commemorate this year’s Fisherman’s Day and Farmer’s Day. Speaking at the ceremony, the President noted that the fishing industry was still one of the main income sources in the Maldives, highlighting the many on going schemes in the development of the fisheries sector. In his speech, the President also highlighted the sea-cucumber cultivation programme initiated in Ken’dhikulhudhoo, noting the profitability of such aquaculture projects, apart from the fishing industry being based on tuna fishing only. Reflecting on the agricultural industry of the Maldives, the President pointed out that the reduction of 20% of all imported agricultural produce has lowered the prices of produce in the market. In his speech, the President also underlined the importance of replacing chemical pesticides with natural means.

DRP didn’t adopt a system which follows personalities- Thasmeen
Leader of the opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has said that his party did not adopt a political system which follows certain personalities.  In view of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) the new party spearheaded by the founder of DRP, Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, Thasmeen said that DRP rejects any system that is restricted on following personalities instead of the democratic rule. Thasmeen said that DRP lost only 1800 people to PPM although PPM claims that 30000 people from DRP have joined the new party. Thasmeen assured that the majority members of DRP are not duped by the new party of Gayoom. He said that DRP will remain the biggest opposition party of Maldives.

Aquaculture and Mari-culture Sustainably will Ensure Economic Growth-Nasheed
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the sustainable development of aquaculture and mari-culture projects in the Maldives will ensure the economic growth and ensure economic viability of the society. The President made this statement during the signing ceremony for development of a sea cucumber project between Masmeeru Investments and NoonuKen’dhikulhudhoo this afternoon. In his speech, President Nasheed noted that the government plans to open the fisheries sector, especially the aquaculture and mari-culture fisheries, for investors. President Nasheed further highlighted the importance of utilizing the commercial benefits of marine resources available in the Maldives, in order to achieve other means of income other than revenues gained from the tourism industry. The President further spoke on addressing fiscal and environmental issues and utilizing expertise advice on environmental concerns to sustain the economic viability of this project. In his speech, President Nasheed noted that there were many challenges in developing the fisheries sector and spoke on the importance of finding investments and expertise on environmental concerns in beginning such a project. Following his speech, President Nasheed waded into the area where sea cucumber harvesting is carried out.

Government announces Establishment of 10 Junior High Schools
President Mohamed Nasheed has announced the establishment of 10 Junior High Schools in different regions of the country. The President made this remark highlighting the government’s plans to standardise the education system of the country at this year’s Prize day function of Ken’dhikulhudhoo School. Speaking at the ceremony held in NoonuKen’dhikulhudhoo, President Nasheed spoke on the many facilities to be provided at each junior high school, including dormitory facilities for the students. The President also pointed out that one of the schools would be instituted in Ken’dhikulhudhoo, and that certificate and diploma level education would be provided at the schools, along with 11th and 12th grades. President Nasheed also noted that the government was working to expand all the schools in the country to work as single-session schools, highlighting the government’s goal to ensure at least 60 percent of students who enter GCE Ordinary Examinations in the country passed minimum 5 subjects. President Mohamed Nasheed has laid the foundation for a Junior College in Ken’dhikulhudhoo of Noonu Atoll, as part of the government’s plans to establish 10 Junior Colleges in different regions of the country. Speaking at the ceremony, the President noted the importance of instituting such colleges in the Maldives, highlighting the government’s strategies in the development and growth of the education sector.

National Drug Survey will Create a Better Understanding of Means of Treatment- VB
-Goverment and Civil Society May Utilize in order to Adopt a Feasible Drug Treatment Plan
Vice President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has said that the National Drug Survey 2011 will create a better understanding of means of treatment which the government and civil society may utilize in order to adopt a feasible drug treatment plan. The Vice President made this statement while speaking at the “Training Programme for Enumerators and Supervisors, National Drug Survey – Maldives 2011” held today at the Youth and Development Center, Male’.

Luckiest Mother, Grand Mothr, Great grand mother

Filipino widow Bai Ulan Kudanding, center, poses for a photo with her children and some of her 247 grandchildren in General Santos City, in the southern Philippines Oct. 17. From Kudanding's 14 children, she has 107 grandchildren, 138 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. One of her daughters, Marawiya, has 19 children. Currently, a couple from the United Kingdom holds the Guinness World Records of having 99 grandchildren.

Dusit Thani Maldives set to open in December
The Dusit Thani Maldives is set to open on Mudhdhoo Island in mid-December featuring 96 villas and extensive features including the largest swimming pool in the Maldives and a tree top spa. Located on Mudhdhoo Island, Dusit Thani Maldives is a 40 minutes breathtaking seaplane ride from the International airport and 10 minutes by speed boat from the new domestic airport. This resort scheduled to open on December will deliver a unique experience to discerning well-travelled guests seeking a peaceful retreat. Featuring a unique spacious lobby, guests will be captivated by an intimate and natural environment packaged up with perfect service. Inspired by Thai artistry the furniture is a relaxed blending of classic and contemporary.

Reports of human rights abuses in Iran on rise: U.N.
Reuters) - Human rights violations in Iran appear to be increasing, with political activists, journalists and others often facing persecution, a U.N. rights investigator said in a report released on Monday. The U.N. special rapporteur on human rights in Iran, Ahmed Shaheed of the Maldives, said in a report to the U.N. General Assembly that the Iranian government had not allowed him to visit Iran while making his assessment. Shaheed has "catalogued an increasing trend of alleged violations of the fundamental rights of the people, guaranteed under international law, and stresses the need for greater transparency from the Iranian authorities," he said in the report released by the United Nations.

                 17 October 2011 | Monday                 

President inaugurates Coconut Planting Programme
President Mohamed Nasheed has today inaugurated the Coconut Planting Programme, as part of the World Food Day celebrations being held in Noonu Ken’dhikulhudhoo. At the ceremony held this morning, the President noted the need to capitalize on the natural and man-made resources available in the country, to fulfill our daily requirements, highlighting the versatility of the coconut palm and its different parts. In his speech, President Nasheed mentioned the lack of attention given to our resources, pointing out that we were indeed being wasteful by neglecting the potential use of various products of the palm tree. Underlining the role of students in the Coconut Planting Programme inaugurated yesterday, the President said that the programme would encourage the cultivation of the coconut palm, and in turn provide various means of income.

Madam Laila inaugurates “The Silent Ocean” art exhibition

An exhibition of paintings, aptly titled “ The Silent Ocean”, was inaugurated by Madam Laila Ali, First Lady , Republic of Maldives at the Indian Cultural Centre at Vavathi, Male’ on 16th October 2011.

Tourist rate will increase 20-30 percent with President’s visit to France- Shiyam

Parliament Member and Chairman of Sun Travels Group, Ahmed Shiyam Mohamed has said that Maldivian Tourism Industry would benefit from the recent visit of President Mohamed Nasheed to France. Shiyam said that he believes that the tourists coming from France will increase by 20 to 30 percent because of the successful discussions held by the President with the leading French Travel and Tour operators on expanding the tourism sector to cater to clienteles of all income ranges during this visit. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Shiyam said that during these discussions the importance of stationing a promotional arm locally, in France, to carry out advertising for the Maldives was noted by the participants. Apart from Shiyam, yhe President was accompanied at the meeting by Ambassador-at-Large Ahmed Mahir.

Capitol credits eGWEN for Cebu tourism honor
THE Capitol lauded reports of Cebu’s return to the list of top island destinations in Asia for this year as compiled by an international travel magazine. In text messages sent to Cebu Daily News yesterday, Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia attributed the province’s comeback to her administration’s Expanded Green and Wholesome Environment that nurtures (eGWEN) program. “(This honor is) an affirmation that the eGwen program embraced by our local government units (LGUs) continues to transform Cebu for the better,” the governor said. The results were released last week from Condé Nast’s 24th Annual Readers’ Choice Awards, an annual listing of the best cities, islands, hotels, transportation and resorts worldwide. Garcia thanked local officials and the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc (RAFI) for being “effective partners” in the implementation of the program.

                 16 October 2011 | Sunday                 

Social media is mixed blessing in epidemics: WHO
Facebook, Twitter and other social media websites boost public awareness of disease outbreaks but also make it more difficult to separate fact from fiction, world health officials said Thursday.

Filipino captain in N.Z. sea pollution crisis charged
The Filipino captain of a ship stuck on a New Zealand reef was arrested and charged Wednesday as up to 70 containers fell into rough seas and a black tide of oil washed up on beaches.

DRP trying to take no-confidence vote against Inaz to Obstruct SAARC Preparation- Aslam
HithadhooUthuru MP, Mohamed Aslam has said that the leader of the opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Ahmed Thasmeen Ali is trying to take a no-confidence vote against Finance Minister Ahmed Inaz to obstruct the preparation works conducted in Addu City for the upcoming 17th SAARC Summit. MP Mohamed Aslam said that the preparations works are going in a high speed and since it needs financial assistance, if the finance ministry gets vacant, then it will be a major challenge against these projects. Aslam said that the motive behind this no-confidence vote is to hinder and spoil the SAARC Summit. He assured that Thasmeen can never achieve this. He said that even though the opposition wants to make the event a failure, they can never achieve it.

After resigning I never gave signals to accept reappointment- Dr. Majeed

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Abdul Majeed Abdul Baari has stated that prior to his reappointed to the Cabinet he did not give any signals that he would accept the Ministerial post if he is reappointed to the cabinet. In a press release issued last evening, Dr. Majeed said that he resigned from the Ministry to respect the decision of Adhaalath Party who requested him to resign from the government. He said that he was shocked to read in a local newspaper that he signaled to accept the reappointment when he resigned from the Ministry.

Main Banks in Male’ to open branches in Addu City
Addu City Mayor, Abdullah Sodig has revealed that the major Banks in Male’ City, including Bank of Ceylon and Habeeb Bank have planned to open their branches in Addu City. Sodig said that the City is now open for other banks. Moreover he said the City Council welcomes all businesses enterprises to invest in Addu City. Sodig also revealed a Singapore Company has announced plans to open a City Hotel in the uninhabited island Hankede. The Mayor said that the developments which are being brought to the City by the government with the preparations for the upcoming SAARC Summit has interested many investors to open their business ventures in Addu. Recently, Chairman of Bank of Ceylon,DrGaminiWickremasinghe, announced the Bank has planned to open a branch in Addu City, Maldives before the SAARC meeting. According to Sunday Observer, BoC Chairman Dr. Wickremasinghesaid that the bank has found a place to locate the branch and will start construction as soon as the Maldives Monetary Authority gives the nod.

From the 4000 forms submitted by PPM only 3019 forms were accepted- Fuwad
President of the Elections Commission, FuwadThaufeeg has said that only 3019 membership forms from the 4000forms submitted by the new party, Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), spearheaded by former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, were accepted by the Commission.
FuwadThaufeeg said that the Election Commission inspects the membership forms and if the commission finds any false information or any contradiction with regards to the information provided in the forms and the information on the Identity Cards, then the commission will reject these forms. Fuwad said that the commission not only scrutinizes the information of the member but also will validate the information of the witnesses. Press Secretary, Mohamed Zuhair said that “the truth of the matter is that Gayoom does not have much popularity among the public also he has been boasting that he is the most popular politician in Maldives.” “Up until yesterday they have been boasting that they have thousands and thousands of people have joined their new party. And claimed that they are now taking lots among those seeking membership because of the great number of people joining them. But they did not have the courage to take lots because then this hoax will be exposed,” he said.

Imthiyaz condemns Judge Abdullah Mohamed’s speech regarding Criminal Court

Lawyer and MP, ImthiyazFahmy has condemned the speech of Criminal Court Chief Judge Abdullah Mohamed regarding the Criminal Court. In a press release issued by ImthiyazFahmy, he said that “Judge Abdullah Mohamed used to condemn the criticism of local and foreign legal experts on the Criminal Court claiming that they are demeaning the honour of the court. However, he has recently agreed with these criticisms by speaking about the Criminal Court himself in a way that demeans the honour of the court.” ImthiyazFahmy said that the Judge described the Criminal Court to be a “campaign office of Presidential Candidates” when he first joined the court. He said that Abdullah Mohamed also confesses that many documents of the court are misplaced and missing. “Although it might be that he was trying to clear himself from blame by putting the blame on those who previously held the authority of the court, it is saddening that he did not acknowledge the fact that he had disgraced the honour of the court of law,” he said.

Tourist rate will increase 20-30 percent with President’s visit to France- Shiyam

Parliament Member and Chairman of Sun Travels Group, Ahmed Shiyam Mohamed has said that Maldivian Tourism Industry would benefit from the recent visit of President Mohamed Nasheed to France. Shiyam said that he believes that the tourists coming from France will increase by 20 to 30 percent because of the successful discussions held by the President with the leading French Travel and Tour operators on expanding the tourism sector to cater to clienteles of all income ranges during this visit. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Shiyam said that during these discussions the importance of stationing a promotional arm locally, in France, to carry out advertising for the Maldives was noted by the participants. Apart from Shiyam, yhe President was accompanied at the meeting by Ambassador-at-Large Ahmed Mahir.

                 15 October 2011 | Saturday                 

President’s Weekly Radio Address: “Airfrance in the Process of Operating Scheduled Flights to Maldives soon”
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that Airfrance is in the process of operating scheduled flights to the Maldives soon. The President made this announcement, briefing on his recent visit to France, in his weekly radio address delivered this morning. President Nasheed reviewed the discussions held at mutually beneficial meetings with the French Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transport and Housing; and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, during his latest visit to France last week. Speaking in this regard, the President highlighted the importance of Maldives’ signing the “Paris-Nairobi Climate Initiative”, noting that the agreement would facilitate for the Maldives, the aid and technical assistance being provided to emerging countries in Africa. The President said that the French Foreign Minister welcomed the Maldives’ stand alongside the French, in the matter of the recent political unrest in Libya. In his weekly radio address, President Nasheed also highlighted the events to be held in Noonu Kendhikulhudhoo on the occasion of this year’s World Food Day, the 16th of October.

President Returns to Male’ Following Conclusion of Visit to France

President Mohamed Nasheed has this morning, returned to Male’ after concluding his official visit to France. During his visit, President Nasheed held discussions with the French Minister for Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transport and Housing, and the French Minister of Foreign and European Affairs. The President also met with leading travel and tour operators of France. Upon his arrival at Male’, the President met with the local media.

Government Explores New Avenues for Re-Invigoration of Maldivian Travel & Tourism Sector
Noting the importance of expanding and diversifying the Maldives’ tourism, President Mohamed Nasheed has held discussions with leading French travel and tour operators on expanding the tourism sector to cater to clienteles of all income ranges. During the discussions, President Nasheed has said that government is exploring many new and different avenues to further promote the Maldives as a tourist destination. The President made this statement to highlight the many economic and policy measures being undertaken to reinvigorate the middle income tourism sector and to attract middle-income holiday makers to the Maldives. At the meeting, President Nasheed highlighted that “people perceive the Maldives as a dream”, and that most airlines were of the view that tourism in the Maldives caters only to luxury markets. He also stated that the Government and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture are willing to work together with airline representatives to facilitate the operation of cheaper transportation in the Maldives which is considered a promising step towards expansion of Maldivian travel & tourism sector. During the meeting Ambassador-at-Large Mahir noted on the need for diversification of the tourism market. He further stated the importance of stationing a promotional arm locally, in France, to carry out advertising for the Maldives. The Ambassador-at-Large further suggested that tour operators needed to come down to the Maldives to get a clearer picture of the Maldives as an ideal tourist destination for both luxury and mid-market tourism. The President was accompanied at the meeting by Ambassador-at-Large Ahmed Mahir, and Parliament Member and Chairman of Sun Travel and Tours Ahmed Siyam Mohamed.

Dr. Mauroof accuse MAAS of trying to brainwash Fuvahmulah students
The Deputy President of the religious right wing Adhaalath Party, Dr. Mauroof Ahmed has accused a local science group, Maldives Association of Advanced Science (MAAS) of trying to brainwash the students of Fuvahmulah School. Speaking at VTV Fasmanzaru program, Dr. Mauroof said that the association tried to feed the students into believing that God does not exist and that humans are the descendants of apes. He said that some of the students challenged the pseudo-science group saying that Humans are descendants of Adam as is revealed by the last Revelation of God. He said that the group then claimed that there are many similarities between the skeletal structure of humans and apes and that this shows that humans were evolved from apes.

Adalath Party vows to make all efforts to oust MDP Govt
Adalath Party has vowed that it will not spare any efforts to oust the MDP Government from power. In the VTV special programme Fas Manzaru joined by Adalath Party President Sheikh Imran Abdulla and Deputy President of the party's Scholar Committee Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed expressed their grave concern about the functioning of the Government contrary to the hopes of the party and the Maldivian people to embrace meaningful reform and good governance. They said Adalath Party joined MDP in the 2008 Presidential election to end the 30 year rule of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's rule in the hope of embracing a worthy democratic rule in the country.

Maldives signs Paris-Nairobi Energy Initiative
The Maldives has signed onto the Paris-Nairobi Climate Initiative; a French-led initiative to promote the uptake of renewable energy and clean technologies in developing countries. The Maldives signed the accord during a meeting in Paris between President Nasheed and Nathalie Kosciusko-Morizet, the French Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development, Transport and Housing.

UN climate talks 'stupid and endless'-Maldives
PARIS — The UN's talks on climate change are daft and crippled by finger-pointing and the need for consensus, the president of the Maldives, Mohamed Nasheed, was quoted on Thursday by Le Monde as saying. Nasheed also said emerging economies were as much to blame for global warming as rich nations.

Maldives to Host Second South Asian Beach Games
(IANS): Maldives will host the second South Asian Beach Games in 2013, the South Asian Olympic Council (SAOC) confirmed. The decision was taken at the SAOC meeting at southern Sri Lankan coastal city Hambantota, where the inaugural South Asian Beach Games are now in progress. Hemasiri Fernando, president of Sri Lanka National Olympic Committee and an executive member of the SAOC, told Xinhua that it was unanimously decided to hold the next Games in the Maldives.

                 13 October 2011 | Thursday                 

Gayoom accepted defeat when Thasmeen opposed to defend his regime using force

Deputy Leader of Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Ibrahim Shareef (Mavota) has said that the former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom accepted his defeat in the second round of the Presidential Elections of 2008 because his then running mate, DRP Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali did not agree with Gayoom to defend his regime using undue force. Speaking at MNBC One’s Nation Talk show, DRP Deputy Leader Shareef said that some of the DRP Council members then and some cabinet Ministers of Gayoom’s regime counseled Gayoom not to step down from the government even if it is by calling for a state of emergency. Shareef said that it was only when DRP Leader Thasmeen told Gayoom that he would not back him in this felony that Gayoom finally accepted defeat and revealed to the media of his defeat. Shareef said that from the time that Gayoom failed in the Presidential elections, the party started to divide. He said that Gayoom’s family wanted to go out to the streets and obstruct everything that the new government might to for the benefit of the people. He added that Gayoom’s family members spoke in this regard in some of the DRP Council meetings. Shareef also revealed that Gayoom stated that he would run in the next Presidential Elections too. He said that the thoughts of Gayoom’s family members differed from the policies of DRP.

Conscience that Guides Development Must Come from People- VP
Civil Society Plays an Important Role in Shaping the Country’s Development

Male’: Vice President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has said that conscience which guides development must come from the people, and therefore civil society plays a very important role in shaping the development of our country.

Adalath Party has no secret deals with MDP Govt; Imran
Male’: Adalath Party has denied that it has a secret deal with the MDP Government. President of the party Sheikh Imran Abdulla said so referring to speculations the Adalath Party and Government have a secret deal to enable Adalath Party to get more ministerial posts in the Government as well as Government making other amends to appease the Islamic party which broke away from the MDP coalition last month., The story also goes that this deal was being made with the reappointment of Dr. Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari as the Islamic Minister just 6 days after he resigned from the post.

UK OUTLINES ROBUST MEASURES TO TACKLE PIRACY
Speaking at the British Chamber of Shipping, Foreign Office Minister, Henry Bellingham, today outlined the UK’s ongoing commitment to tackle piracy off the coast of East Africa.

Exchange of trade teams between Pakistan and Maldives urged
ISLAMABAD: Maldives urged exchange of business delegations for promotion of bilateral trade and strengthening of SAARC Chamber with the view to play an import role in the trade and development of the member countries. Foreign Minister of Maldives Ahmed Naseem and ambassador of Maldives in Pakistan Adam Shahnaz during meeting with President of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Senator Haji Ghulam Ali underscored the need to further increase cordial relations between both the countries. They said there were many products, which could be exported to Maldives by Pakistan.

                 12 October 2011 | Wednesday                 

Sheikh Ilyas urges AP members to remain patient and steadfast

Deputy President of the Council of Religious Scholars of Adhaalath Party (AP), Sheikh Ilyas Hussein has urged the members of the party to remain patient and steadfast in this time of differing among some members of the party. “As the Deputy President of the Council of Religious Scholars today I meet you members of the Adhaalath Party and the well-wishers of this party to clear the confusion that has been spread within some of the members of the party regarding the change that has come to the party,” he said commencing his speech yesterday.

President Departs for France to hold discussions on bi-lateral French aid
President Mohamed Nasheed has departed on an official visit to France yesterday. During the visit, President Nasheed will hold talks with French Environment Minister Nathalie Kosciusko-Morizet and French Foreign Minister Alain Juppé. During his visit, the President will also hold discussions on bi-lateral French aid and official assistance programmes to the Maldives. While on visit, President Nasheed will meet with senior management of Agence Française de Développement (AFD) a French international development agency, to discuss development and financial assistance in terms of access to water and sanitation. Speaking to press before departure, the President shared his views on government efforts and experiences to promote economic growth and sustainable development. Speaking to press, the President also spoke on government incentives to sustain traditional tourism and promote the growth of a mid-market tourism sector. The President further highlighted on progress made for delivery of a successful SAARC Summit.

Minister doesn’t have the authority to pay the debts of a private company- DQP
Deputy President of the opposition Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP), Dr. Mohamed Jameel Ahmed has said that the Finance Minister has no authority or power to pay the debts of private Finance companies. In view of the reports that the Ministry of Finance paid 7.3 million Rufiyaa from the contingency budget passed by the Peoples’ Majlis for the year 2009 to pay the debts of a private company, Dr. Jameel said that this is an act of corruption committed by the then Finance Minister Ali Hashim.

President Congratulates MNDF for Contributions Made Towards Development of Addu City
President Mohamed Nasheed asCommander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has congratulated and commended the valuable services of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), noting their contributions towards the development of Addu City and provision of security for SAARC Summit to be held in Addu City this November.

Indian Foreign Secretary calls on Sri Lankan President, visits North
India's Foreign Secretary Ranjan Mathai who arrived in Sri Lanka last Saturday on a three-day official visit called on the Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa Monday to discuss bilateral issues important to both countries. This is Mathai's first visit to Sri Lanka since his appointment as Foreign Secretary.

Pakistan values its relations with Maldives: FM Khar
Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar on Tuesday said Pakistan greatly values its relations with Maldives which are based on shared values. She was talking to her Maldivian counterpart Ahmed Naseem who is currently on three-day official visit to Pakistan, at the Foreign Office here. The two foreign ministers discussed bilateral, regional and global issues. They expressed satisfaction over the existing warm and friendly relations between the two countries. They agreed that both countries would cooperate bilaterally as well as under SAARC, to promote regional cooperation. Appreciating the progress made by SAARC in a number of areas, the two ministers agreed that member states should deepen their economic relations further by concentrating on project-oriented cooperation under SAARC. They agreed that the SAARC could provide an effective and viable mechanism for promotion of peace, development and progress of the region. Foreign Minister Khar greatly appreciated the efforts being made by the government of Maldives for hosting the 17th SAARC Summit in Addu city in November this year. She offered all support and assistance to ensure the success of the Summit.

Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan named Goodwill Ambassador for sanitation
World- renowned Indian actor referred to as the King of Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan, has been named as the Goodwill Ambassador for Sanitation and Hygiene at an impressive opening ceremony of the WSSCC Global Sanitation and Hygiene Forum in Mumbai, India. Making the announcement Sunday, October 9, 2011 at approximately 20:45 hrs Eastern Time, organizers of the first ever global forum on sanitation, which has attracted well over 300 participants from all over the world, said Shah Rukh Khan had eagerly agreed to join a campaign to ensure a greater part of the world and India’s population who do not have access to improved sanitation get that access.

Maldives in Peril: From the SLOWLIFE symposium
There is no place more apt to engage in heavy-hitting conversation about the future of Planet Ocean than the heart of the small island nation of the Maldives. It is a place many have heard of but few could pick out on a map. Made up of twelve hundred islands and atolls, most pancake flat, the highest reaches no more than five feet above sea level making the Maldives the lowest country on earth. Only two hundred of the islands are inhabited by roughly 320,000 people. It is an always hot, exceedingly beautiful, Muslim country stretching about 600 miles from north to south in the heart of the Indian Ocean off the tip of Sri Lanka. In terms less geographic the Maldives is also ground zero for assessing the impacts of climate change. As the earth's temperature continues to heat up, impacting sea surface temperatures in particular, the Maldives is at incredible risk of both rising sea levels and increased frequency and violence of storms.

                 11 October 2011 | Tuesday                 

Economy negatively affected due to foreign currency earning business given to foreigners: MPs
Some Members of the Peoples Majlis have expressed serious concern about many of the foreign currency earning businesses being given to foreign parties. Speaking in the debate on the establishment of a Mercantile Court at yesterday's meeting of the Majlis Vilufushi MP Riyaz Rasheed said it is worrying that many of the foreign currency generating businesses are being awarded to foreign parties while the Government has been talking much about protecting Maldivian businessmen. MPs elaborated on the shops at the Ibrahim Nasir International airport saying that all the shops at the airport which are rented at exorbitant prices have been taken over by the airport. They referred to shops run by MVK company and others and said we will soon see all the shops in the country taken by foreigners. According to MPs even a 800 sq. feet shop in the airport is rented for such high prices as US$300,000.

Government must seize properties of Ilyas Ibrahim
MDP Chairperson and MP for Hulhuhenveyru Moosa Maniku has called on the Government to seize the properties of Ilyas Ibrahim, former Minister and MP in the Government of former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, accusing Ilyas has acquired these properties in illegal means. Moosa Maniku was speaking at Yesterday's Majlis meeting where a bill on the establishment of a Mercantile Court was debated. Moosa touched on his repeated accusations of corruption on the high officials of the former Government. He has called on the Majlis and Government on several occasions to investigate these cases and punish the concerned persons. Speaking in the same debate Eydhafushi MP Ahmed Saleem strongly accused the Government for failing to take action on the officials of the former Government whom the MDP Government is continuously condemning and accusing. He referred to the accusations made against former Minister Ilyas Ibrahim and said it is not Ilyas Ibrahim who have stolen state wealth but he accused partners of powerful MDP politicians have committed the theft. Saleem angrily called on the Government to take necessary legal action on those accused by them without talking about the same over and over again.

Blind trust of the government to Apollo is from the reasons for the failure of health care system- Dr. Abdul Samad
Prominent public health professional Dr. Abdul Samad Abdullah has said that the blind trust that the government gave to the the Apollo Company of India is from the major reasons of the failure of health care system of the country. Speaking to the media, Dr. Samad who held the post of Director in the WHO South East Asia Regional Office said that the health care system has failed because of the government giving away the health sector for foreign parties. Dr. Samad said that the government signed agreements with Apollo Company to manage Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), the main government hospital, on the claims to improve the standard of IGMH. He said that many of the experienced doctors were sacked during that phase although this project went haywire later. Dr. Samad underscored the importance of experienced doctors in the development of the health sector. He said that the loss of these doctors was a hard blow on the health care system. He said that doctors become experienced after many years of hard work and after spending a lot on them. Dr. Samad also highlighted the fact that the government spent a lot of money from the state budget to create experienced Maldivian doctors in the IGMH. He said that doctors such as Dr. Ahmed Razi were jewels of this country. He said that the loss of these doctors is a great disappointment and a failure.

Indonesian President Invites Nasheed to the Bali Democracy Forum
President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono of Indonesia has invited President Mohamed Nasheed, to the 4th Democracy Forum to be held in Bali of Indonesia this December.
The letter of invitation was presented to Special Envoy of the President Ibrahim Hussain Zaki, by the Special Envoy of Indonesia Abdurrahman Mohammad Fachir. At the meeting, held at the President’s Office this morning, discussions were held on the work done in the Maldives to establish a full democracy.

Dr. Majeed joining MDP soon
News is spreading that Dr. Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari who has been reappointed as the Minister of Islamic Affairs just six days after he resigned the same post following an appeal made by Adalath Party. According to our sources Dr. Majeed resigned from the post because he was first appointed to the Cabinet on a slot given to Adalath Party as a Coalition partner of the MDP Government. Adalath Party has relinquished its coalition with the Government last month over increasing differences between the Government over major policies. Adalath Party has said MDP Government has not honoured the conditions agreed under the Coalition terms.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa unveils “The Night Spa”
From this autumn, guests at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa can indulge in a one-of-a-kind nocturnal ritual: The Night Spa. Open from 10:00 pm to 1:00 am nightly, The Night Spa offers a choice of four 150-minute open-air lunar rituals on The Island Spa’s private, starlit beach. Devised by Sodashi to attune the body with nature’s purest rhythms, each ritual features exclusive treatments that combine the magic and mysteries of the infinite night sky with Sodashi’s therapeutic-grade extracts, essences and techniques. “The Island Spa takes on an almost magical quality at night,” explains Assistant Spa Manager Cassandra Forrest. “When you combine this with the warm tropical air, the thrill of sailing across a starlit lagoon, and the benefits of the open-air rituals, it all adds up to a pretty special spa experience.”

China's stepped up moves in Maldives worry India
Alarm bells are ringing afresh in the Indian security establishment over renewed efforts by China to expand its footprint in Maldives, even as New Delhi and Beijingcontinue with their strategic shadow-boxing all across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). With China poised to establish a full-fledged embassy at Maldives, strategically located southwest of India astride major sea lanes in IOR, officials say Beijing has stepped up its "lobbying'' to bag a couple or more of crucial development projects in the 1,190-island archipelago. China, in particular, seems interested in developing Ihavandhoo and Maarandhoo Islands, with transhipment ports among other things, as well as grabbing a piece of action in the development of the country's second international airport at Hanimaadhoo.

Sir Richard Branson Says World Faces “The Mother of All Recessions”
Sir Richard Branson, the founder and Chairman of the Virgin Group, has said that the world faces “the mother of all recessions” unless much more is done to encourage the development of renewable energy. Addressing delegates at the third annual Six Senses Slow Life Symposium at Soneva Fushi in the Maldives, Sir Richard said that governments had to provide additional incentives to support the adoption of alternative fuel sources. “If we don’t have alternative fuels we are going to have the mother of all recessions. The way to kick-start the revolution is to have no tax on all clean energy while slowly increasing tax on dirty energy,” said Sir Richard. “We have been diverting our profit from airlines into developing fuel for aircraft that won’t damage the environment.”

                 10 October 2011 | Monday                 

Dr Majeed again reappointed as Minister of Islamic Affairs

President Mohamed Nasheed has reappointed Dr Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari as the Minister of Islamic Affairs. Presentation of letter of appointment to Dr Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari was held yesterday morning at the President’s Office where the oath was administered by Supreme Court Judge Uz. Abdulla Areef. In the ceremony, President Nasheed highlighted the good work and sincerity of Minister Dr. Majeed during his tenure. He said that he hopes that the Dr. Majeed would work with the same sincerity and honesty. In reply to a question posed to the Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair by Miadhu Daily, he said that Dr. Majeed has always given a special importance to efficiently foster the true knowledge of the religion of Islam in the country.

Dr. Jamsheed queries on the state of Health Care System
Former Director General of Public Health Services, Dr Ahmed Jamsheed Mohamed has raised questions regarding the state of the Health Care System of Maldives. Speaking at DhiTV, Dr. Jamsheed said that questions are raised regarding the state of the Health Care System because those who are responsible do not seem to know what is happening in the health sector. He said that it is questionable whether the Health Ministry knows of the true state that the health service system has reached today.

Only 4 scholars agreed to break away from govt coalition- Hussein Rasheed
Sheikh Idrees requested not to break away from the coalition

Minister of state for Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Hussein Rasheed Ahmed has revealed that only four scholars from the council of scholars of the Adhaalath Party voted in favour of the decision to break away from the government coalition.

SAARC Works Need Greater Focus, Not Poetic Agreements –Nasheed
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that for SAARC to succeed in its works, what we need is greater focus and not a number of agreements or frameworks. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the “Consultative Meeting on Strengthening SAARC’s Institutional Mechanism” held yesterday morning, the President said that all SAARC leaders must be able to work until an agreement is reached, though every decision does not need to be a unanimous agreement. Highlighting the noble purpose of the founding of SAARC, President Nasheed noted the high aspirations held by the people for a better quality life. He also said that the people want their leaders to consult and deliberate on matters in delivering the good life they hope for. The President underlined the government efforts to attain other means of national income without relying on import duties as a mainstream of government revenue, noting that the change was “not politically easy”. Further, the President conveyed his hopes to develop better and stronger relations among SAARC countries, regarding this year’s SAARC Summit slogan “Building Bridges”.

Maldives is a valued member of ADB- Sultan Hafeez
Sultan Hafeez Rahman, Director General of Asian Development Bank (ADB)'s Pacific Department has said that Maldives is a valued member of the Bank since the country joined ADB in 1978. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony of the “Consultative Meeting on Strengthening SAARC’s Institutional Mechanism” held yesterday morning, Sultan Hafeez said that ADB has been providing assistance to the Maldives over a long period of time.

Iraq, siding with Iran, sends essential aid to Syria’s Assad
More than six months after the start of the Syrian uprising, Iraq is offering key moral and financial support to the country’s embattled president, undermining a central U.S. policy objective and raising fresh concerns that Iraq is drifting further into the orbit of an American arch rival — Iran. Iraq’s stance has dealt an embarrassing setback to the Obama administration, which has sought to enlist Muslim allies in its campaign to isolate Syrian autocrat Bashar al-Assad. While other Arab states have downgraded ties with Assad, Iraq has moved in the opposite direction, hosting official visits by Syrians, signing pacts to expand business ties and offering political support.

Ayatollah Taskhiri: Western Efforts to Confine Islamic Revolution Useless

Head of the World Forum for Proximity of Islamic Schools of Thought Ayatollah Taskhiri made the remarks in a meeting with the Deputy Grand Mufti of Croatia (highest religious authority of Muslims in Croatia). Taskhiri said that the West sought hard to block the spread of the Islamic Revolution and "tried to portray it as an Iranian and Shiite revolution which is not related to the other Islamic countries and Sunnis, but to no avail as we see that the blessings of this revolution have spread throughout the world".

PM to take up Pak-Tajik connectivity project with Afghan President
Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Sunday said that he would take up the Pakistan-Tajikistan road project with Afghan President Hamid Karzai during the forthcoming SAARC Summit to be held in Maldives next month. The Prime Minister was talking to Gilgit-Baltistan Governor Pir Karam Ali Shah, who called on him at Prime Minister House here. He said that the completion of project would provide the shortest possible route to the people of Pakistan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan, besides reinvigorating their historical, cultural and trade ties spread over hundreds of years. The road project as visualized will connect Pakistan with Tajikistan by passing through eight kilometer long Wakhan corridor of Afghanistan. The Prime Minister said the project was compatible with the agenda of SAARC Summit which is called “Connectivity”.

                 08 October 2011 | Saturday                 

President’s Weekly Radio Address: “Majority of Next Year’s Budget will go towards Healthcare and Education”
President Mohamed Nasheed has revealed the government’s decision to expend the majority of next year’s budget on the development of the healthcare and education sectors. In his weekly radio address delivered this morning, the President highlighted on the progress of the compilation of next year’s budget, noting that the budget will focus on lowering state expenditure, minimising debt, and providing the people with social security and other public welfare services. President Nasheed said that cabinet ministers and other government officials have made an estimate on this year’s budget deficit based on the gross domestic product (GDP) this year. The President also noted that this estimate illustrates the decrease in government expenditure, and that the process of shaping the budget, to enable the execution of government pledges and cater to the immediate needs of the people, has begun. In his radio address, the President also spoke on the success of the new GST system introduced last week, noting that this tax would add to the state revenue, and in turn contribute to the growth of various public service sectors. Noting that this year’s Fishermen’s Day coincides with the World Food Day, which is the 16th of October, President Nasheed detailed on the different programmes to be held in Kendhikulhudhoo of Noonu atoll, where the occasions are to be commemorated officially.

President Nasheed Relocates Northern Utilities Ltd. Head Office to Felivaru
President Mohamed Nasheed has relocated the Head Office of Northern Utilities Limited to Felivaru of Lhaviyani atoll. The President made this change as part of the government’s plans to shift head offices of utilities companies to the provinces they serve, instead to being based in Male’. Speaking at the ceremony held in Felivaru yesterday, the President noted that the purpose of relocating head offices was to bring the service providers closer to the people. In his speech, President Nasheed highlighted the success of the 7 utilities companies established at the 7 provinces of the country. He especially thanked the Chairman of the board of directors of the Northern Utilities Limited, the Deputy Managing Director and other members of the board for their competent service. President Nasheed visited Naifaru yesterday as part of his current tour of some islands of Lhaviyani atoll, and observed the administration of Madhrasathul Ifthithaah, Lhaviyani Atoll Hospital and Lhaviyani Atoll Clinic.

Sri Lanka's elite police force to handle security for 17th SAARC summit in Maldives
Sri Lanka's elite police Special Task Force (STF) units are slated to provide part of the security for the 17 SAARC summit to be held in Maldives next month, according to a report in Haveeru online. The STF soldiers, specialized in counter terrorism operations and VIP security, are to be deployed for the summit that is to take place in Addu City in November.

Pharma industry possesses potential for drugs exports
Lahore—Managing Director, Merck (Pvt) Ltd., Abdul Baqy Khan, has said that Merck (pvt.) Limited Pakistan is exploring African markets to export medicines after accomplishments in Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Maldives, as there is huge potential in the export of medicines to different countries. Addressing a news conference here today, he said: “Pharma industry in Pakistan is facing problems due to lacking consistent policy. Pharma Industry is suffering due to price control since last decade. Several multinational stopped expansion/up gradation projects and more than six Pharma companies closed down or sale out and business of multinationals shrink from 80 % to almost 50 % of total Pharma market. The companies are restoring to budget cuts for their survival due to inflation, electricity, gas and fuel tariffs while exchange rate of euro has increased substantially in the past one decade.”

Baros Maldives wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Villa
Baros Maldives has won an award for the fifth consecutive year in the annual World Travel Awards. The resort, a short speedboat ride away from Male International Airport, has been voted by travel agents worldwide as having The Indian Ocean’s Leading Villa. This is The Baros Residence. It offers a sanctuary of the highest luxury in an exclusive tropical garden where guests relax and rejuvenate in ultimate privacy. With 268 square metres of refined elegance, The Baros Residence Villa boasts a linen-canopied king-size bed and a luxurious bathroom, a shaded veranda with a four-poster day bed, pool deck loungers and its own secret garden swimming pool. With a personal butler on duty 24-hours a day, meals can be enjoyed in The Baros Residence or in one of the resort’s three renowned gourmet restaurants. It has a sommelier-stocked wine chiller, a library of coffee table books, and there is direct beach access from this secluded, romantic hideaway to the golden-sand beach and lagoon.

Marshall Islands Creates World's Largest Shark Sanctuary
The Republic of the Marshall Islands has established the world's largest shark sanctuary. The Nitijela, the Marshallese parliament, unanimously passed legislation this week that ends commercial fishing of sharks in all 768,547 square miles (nearly two million square kilometers) of the Pacific island nation's waters. The law bans the sale, trade and possession of sharks, shark fins, or any other shark parts.

                 06 October 2011 | Thursday                 

Teachers play a major role in developing the country- Nasheed

President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the teachers play a major role in developing the country. Speaking in this regard, at the function held at Dharubaaruge convention center to award the most outstanding teachers, President Nasheed highlighted the important role of teachers in the society stating that teachers build the foundation upon which a society is built. The President also conveyed Teachers’ Day greetings to all the teachers in the Maldives. President said that the Government’s plan was to bring positive changes to all professional employees, such as doctors, teachers, nurses. Further, the President said that the government was trying to provide extra benefits that can be arranged in the coming year. He said the teachers were providing a valuable service and underscored the significance of education in the development of country.

Government launches Dhiraagu IPO Prospectus
The Government has initiated the process of Initial Public Offering (IPO) by launching the Dhiraagu IPO prospectus. Dhiraagu IPO launching ceremony was held at Dharubaaruge, Rannabandeyri Maalam, which was attended by Guest of Honour, President Mohamed Nasheed, Cabinet Ministers, members of Dhiraagu Board, Government officials, customers, the management of Dhiraagu and the media.

Heritage is a reminder of the experiences and achievements of humanity- Butenis

Ambassador of United States to the Maldives Patricia A. Butenis has said that the cultural heritage serves as a reminder of the historical experiences and achievements of humanity and can offer lessons for today.

Meeting focuses on cooperation among universities in OIC countries
RIYADH: Ministers of higher education and scientific research in the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries began an extraordinary meeting here Tuesday to explore prospects of expanding cooperation among universities and research centers in the Muslim world. Opening the conference, Higher Education Minister Khaled Al-Anqari emphasized the role of institutions of higher learning in OIC countries in transforming them into knowledge-based economies. “We understand the role of higher education in the development and progress of every nation as it provides the necessary administrative and technical experts required by all sectors,” he said.

Photography exhibition at Katara
Seventy photographs depicting the various creatures and colours of the sea adorn the walls of the Qatar Photographic Society at an exhibition which opened yesterday at Katara. Qatari photographer Redha Mohammed Qalabi (left) dived into the Qatari waters and braved the deep in various corners of the world such as Seychelles and Maldives to bring into light the wealth of world’s ocean resources and the beauty of the sea which should be taken good care of. Truly a feast to the eyes, ‘Life under the sea’ photo expo showcases various fishes and other sea creatures, corals and even photos of divers as they venture into the Qatari waters. From the gigantic whale sharks of the North of Qatar to the playful clown tiger fish and tiny anemone of Maldives and the breathtaking corals of Seychelles, the exhibition provides both children and adults an exciting journey into the depths of the ocean. H E Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage opened the exhibition which was attended by members of the Qatar Photographic Society and professional photographers who were all impressed by the quality of the photos.

                 05 October 2011 | Wednesday                 

Government Aims to Expand its Economic and Fiscal Reform Agenda by Divesting Part of its Stake in Dhiraagu to the Maldivian Public

President Mohamed Nasheed has said that Government aims to expand its economic and fiscal reform agenda by divesting part of its stake in Dhiraagu to the Maldivian public. The President made this statement while speaking at the launch event of Dhiraagu Initial Public Offering held at Dharubaaruge last night. At the event the President reiterated that economic policies which promote public private partnerships are necessary to develop economic growth of this country.

Maldivian tourism gets Indian & Chinese boost, wary of Lanka
The Maldives is hoping to attract large investment from China and India into its tourism sector and an industry official there says Sri Lanka is trying very had to compete with the archipelago. According to a story in Maldivian based Minivan News, the Maldivian tourism industry is expected to attract investment from China and India that would "surpass precedents in coming years". This year, the Maldives reached 700,000 arrivals by September. According to Tourism Ministry statistics, 19.9 percent of these arrivals were Chinese. The increased activity within the APAC region could have a cultural impact at home. "Maldivian staff are more familiar with Western culture," said Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), Mohamed Maleeh Jamal. "Many speak Italian, French, German. So, the shift required to cater to more Asian guests and customers has lead many Maldivians working in the industry to familiarize themselves with Chinese, Japanese and Korean languages and cultural practices."

Endless summer in the Maldives
For those wanting to extend the UK’s Indian summer, Purely Maldives is offering a week of uninterrupted sunshine at Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort in the Maldives from just £1,299pp, based on two adults sharing. The perfect getaway for a honeymoon, family holiday or a scuba-diving experience of a lifetime, Olhuveli is nestled amidst tropical vegetation and surrounded by a vast sandy, award-winning beach and a crystal clear lagoon.

Productivity of land plants may be greater than previously thought
London. The global uptake of carbon by land plants may be up to 45 per cent more than previously thought. This is the conclusion of an international team of scientists, based on the variability of heavy oxygen atoms in the carbon dioxide of the atmosphere driven by the El Nino effect.

                 04 October 2011 | Tuesday                 

President Observes Implementation of GST in Male’
President Mohamed Nasheed has today visited a number of retail shops, wholesalers and supermarkets in Male’, to observe the implementation of the GST system, which was introduced in Maldives yesterday. During his tour of shops in Male’, shop owners informed President Nasheed that certain difficulties were in fact evident in the beginning, and that MIRA has been taking necessary actions to resolve any problems. According to some shop owners, most businesses had been well prepared, for the implementation of the taxation system. After his visit to various shops in Male’, the President briefed the media, noting that the implementation of GST system would be alleviated further as duties on several goods will be waived from January next year. He also pointed out that the lower rates of duties would in turn decrease the prices of goods. Speaking in this regard, the President said that a more feasible tax administration system would be established as legal formalities get completed. President Nasheed also said that tax system was introduced in the Maldives to increase state income which would contribute to the growth and development of public services in the country, such as social security, public welfare, and education as well as the delivery of health cover, which is scheduled to be widened soon to include all Maldivians.

President makes Senior Appointments

President Mohamed Nasheed has appointed Ahmed Mahir as the Ambassador of State, and Sulthana Shakir as the Deputy Minister of Defence and National Security.

Coco Collection World Luxury Hotel Awards wins
The Coco Collection has been recognized in four categories at the prestigious World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony held in Zagreb, The Coco Collection won the category Best Luxury Hotel Brand in the Maldives and Maldives Best Luxury Spa Resort. Coco Palm Bodu Hithi won World’s Most Romantic Luxury Hotel as well as Maldives’ Luxury Island Resort. The Coco Collection has been honoured at the World Luxury Hotel Awards for a consecutive three years, which is testament to the resorts high standards and dedication to service.

Lankans in Kochi under the scanner
The Indian police and the intelligence wing have told airport authorities to monitor Sri Lankans and Maldivians arriving in Kochi, CNN IBN reported today. According to the report, the police had received information that several visitors from countries like Sri Lanka and the Maldives are staying in the city for more than the prescribed time period. The police have noted that the inflow of tourists, mainly those who come for medical and purchasing purposes often break the norms and stay for more than the prescribed period. Since there is a high alert that the Maldives is becoming the hub of terrorist recruits and Sri Lankans with LTTE connection arrested these days, the police suspect that there are high chances of spying in the state.

                 02 October 2011 | Sunday                 

Indian National Security Advisor pays Courtesy Call on the President
National Security Advisor of India Shivshankar Menon has today paid a courtesy call on President Mohamed Nasheed. At the meeting held at the President’s Office, the President expressed his gratitude to the Indian government for their assistance provided in the preparations for this year’s SAARC Summit to be held in the Maldives. The officials also discussed compiling a Climate Change Declaration at the SAARC Summit. President Nasheed and the National Security Advisor also exchanged ideas on the security measures to be taken for the safety of the Indian Ocean, and highlighted the Indian Ocean Cooperation’s role in controlling and decreasing the rates of piracy and illegal fishing in the Indian Ocean.

Secretary to the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence Pays a Courtesy Call on the President
Secretary to the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence Gotabaya Rajapaksa RWP RSP PSC, has paid a courtesy call on President Mohamed Nasheed today. Discussions during the meeting held at the President’s Office this morning were focused on the effectiveness of the rehabilitation efforts currently underway in Sri Lanka in order to lay the foundations of a peaceful and prosperous nation. In his remarks, the President underscored the long and close relationship that exists between the Maldives and Sri Lanka. In particular, the President commended Sri Lankan efforts made in rehabilitation, resettlement, infra-structure and bringing normalcy to the lives of its people after the end of its long civil war. The President further expressed certainty that the lives of the people of Sri Lanka will flourish under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa. At the meeting Secretary to the Sri Lankan Ministry of Defence Gotabaya Rajapaksa RWP RSP PSC, highlighted his view that the Maldives National Defence Force was comparatively capable and well-trained. The meeting was also attended by Special Envoy of the President Ibrahim Hussain Zaki, Advisor of Political Affairs Mohamed Shihab and Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Naseem.

South Asia leads Asia Pacific tourist arrivals
South Asia propelled the international visitor arrivals in the Asia/Pacific region. In the latest figures available, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) today reported that the preliminary figures for international visitor arrivals into Asia/Pacific destinations for July show a year-on-year increase of seven per cent. PATA’s Strategic Intelligence Centre noted that the growth rate has become more stable following the global economic recovery phase, which started in early 2010 and peaked in June of that year. Nevertheless, since then, Asia has continued to show healthy expansion. For the first seven months of 2011, international visitor arrivals into Asia/Pacific have grown by five per cent. Within Asia, South Asia is leading the pack growing by 14 per cent, with Southeast Asia up by 12 per cent, Northeast Asia up by four per cent and the Pacific region up by one per cent.

Foreign arrivals escalate into APAC
Asia Pacific (APAC) destinations continue to welcome a growing number of visitors, with a seven percent rise in arrivals into the region for the month of July this year compared to the corresponding month 2010. Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) international visitor arrivals figures for the month noted that as the economy stabilizes, travellers into the region continue to grow. “Even during times of economic uncertainty, the Asia/Pacific region continues to perform strongly, reinforcing its image and position as a powerhouse of international travel and tourism,” PATA’s Strategic Intelligence Centre director John Koldowski said. “The source market mix, however, is changing. “Some of the more traditional origin markets are losing ground to emerging ones. “Arrivals from Russia for example have increased by more than 50% so far this year. Numerically, the Russians are now as important as – for example – France and even Germany.

US to restore GSP
The US GSP trade concession will be restored on the completion of budget debates and discussions by the US Congress, said US Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Patricia Butenis. He was addressing the 19th Annual General Meeting of the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) on Thursday.