Maldives and Japan developed the bilateral relations on November 14, 1967.
Since then, both countries have been working together and assisting one another at different levels.
Maldives and Japan have also showcased their strong bond at international platforms. Japan has been a constant support and has played an integral part in the economic and social development of Maldives even before Maldives upgraded from the tire of least developed countries to the tire of developing countries.
Japan has carried out some of the largest developmental projects in Maldives. One such mega project was the laying out of a sea wall around the capital city of Maldives. The project was touted to be the biggest project carried out back then. In addition, most of the schools and office buildings were also constructed by grant aids of the Japanese Government.
The first ever youth centre and the telecommunication building was established from Japanese aid. Japan was also a constant support in the development of the fisheries industry in Maldives as the first ever fish canning factory was developed in Lhaviyani Atoll. Japan has also been a major importer of fish products from Maldives, as large quantity of dried and canned fish is imported by Japan from Maldives. Furthermore, Japanese tourist arrivals have always maintained rank at the top ten tourist arriving countries to Maldives. Japan has also been a constant and reliable support in strengthening and developing sectors such as education, sports and health and has provided various loans and grant aids in these fields. The developmental aspect both countries has always remained loyal and a constant support in state of crisis and disasters.
Japan has provided major assistance in crisis such as the tidal surge in 1987 and the tsunami of 2004. In 2011, Maldives carried out a special telethon to raise fund for helping the people of Japan when the country was hit with a major earthquake and tsunami.
Japan has now targeted its prime focus in developing the broadcasting sector of Maldives. Under the aim Japan provides assistance in developing the services and people to develop the sector. Also, the Japanese government aims to establish digital territorial broadcasting technology in Maldives.
President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom's official trip to Japan has also enhanced and paved way for additional ways of development of bilateral relations between both nations. During his official trip, President Yameen called on the Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe and discussed ways of further enhancing bilateral relations. As Maldives and Japan celebrates the joyous occasion of 50 years since the establishment of bilateral relations; the future looks bright and prosperous.