The US Embassy in Sri Lanka, in collaboration with the Embassy of Japan in Maldives, held a paramedic training for the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard Dive and Salvage Unit in Male' from March 9 to 10.
A total of 16 divers successfully completed the two-day intensive training which was led by Cory Garlock and Kyle Coughenour from the Civil Military Support Team of the US Embassy in Sri Lanka.
In November 2020, the Japanese government extended a grant of USD 7.6 million to Maldives in order to finance the procurement of communications equipment for the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) as well as Search and Rescue professional dive gear.
The US Embassy's provision of paramedic training to Coast Guard Divers that serve as the first responders to maritime accidents, represented an effort to complement the aforementioned grant assistance.
According to the statement by the Japanese Embassy, both Japan and the United States remain committed to maintaining close ties with Maldives and continuing collaborative efforts to advance prosperity and ensure the security of the region.