Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has stated that the Government intends to implement austerity measures in a way that minimises public inconvenience, amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East and Gulf.
He made these remarks at a press briefing held at the President's Office today, in his capacity as Chair of the Special Cabinet Committee established in response to the ongoing tensions, during which updates were provided on Government measures to address potential challenges.
At the press briefing, Committee member and Minister of Finance Moosa Zameer conveyed the President's directions to ensure that all plans safeguard the uninterrupted provision of essential public services and meet the basic needs of citizens, even in the event of a prolonged continuation of the tensions. He stated that, accordingly, the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) and the Ministry are working in close coordination to ensure the implementation of austerity measures, the continued security of fuel, staple foods and essential medicines, and the provision of course fees and stipends for Government-sponsored students abroad. The Minister also outlined measures being taken to manage Government cash flow.
Referring to reports on austerity measures adopted by various countries, the Minister stated that such measures are tailored to country-specific circumstances. He also explained why the Maldivian Government has not announced specific measures, noting that such disclosures could have adverse repercussions. He said that, in line with the President's guidance, the Government's approach is to reduce expenditure and manage cash flow prudently.
The Special Cabinet Committee is scheduled to provide updates every Sunday at 4:00 pm. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu established the Committee on 28 February 2026, comprising nine Cabinet Ministers tasked with coordinating Government action to mitigate the potential impact of the situation on the Maldives.
In addition to the Committee Chair and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the press briefing was attended by Minister of Defence Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, Minister of Finance Moosa Zameer, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen, Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim, Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed, and Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed.