Ambassador of Maldives to India Ahmed Mohamed has stated the government decided to make a donation to the relief efforts in Kerala, as a small gesture to a neighbour and friend who has always stood by Maldives in its hours of need. India is the closest neighbour and any natural disaster or calamity that strikes India has an emotional impact on Maldives, the Maldivian ambassador said in an interview with The Hindu.
The government of Maldives announced it will donate USD 50,000 towards flood relief in Kerala. The donation was a token of contribution in solidarity with the people of India, for the ongoing rescue and relief operations in the flood-hit state of Kerala, according to a statement issued by the President's office.
It is estimated as many as 1,500 Maldivians live in India, including 800 in Kerala. Affected families were moved to safe areas with the help of the Maldivian consulate in Kerala.