Canada High Commissioner Meets with Noonu Atoll Council and Partners

H.E. Eric Walsh, Canada High Commissioner, met with Noonu Atoll Council Members, Staffs and Noonu Atoll Local Authority Company officials to discuss the ongoing development and implementation of the Reimagine Noonu Binaaveshi Project. The project was presented by project partner Land Sea Maldives, outlining pathways for sustainable development and resource management across the atoll.

Key Discussions

Key discussions included transportation within the atoll, highlighting the need for strategic planning to enhance connectivity. Maafaru International Airport was part of the conversation, with participants focusing on improving its services to better meet the needs of the atoll. It was noted that building additional airports would not be necessary, as the council aims to optimize the existing infrastructure.

The meeting also focused on the atoll’s resource management strategies, particularly in utilizing land and islands. Plans were discussed to survey the islands—both inhabited and uninhabited—for their suitability in farming. Allocating islands specifically for agricultural purposes aims to ensure the effective and equitable use of available resources, supporting the atoll’s broader social and economic development goals.

The meeting fostered an environment of open dialogue, where staff had the opportunity to ask questions and share their perspectives. This participatory approach ensured that diverse voices contributed to the development and refinement of the Reimagine Noonu Binaaveshi Project.