The government has today signed an agreement with Maldives Dhoni Services on opening of transport network in South Central Province.

The agreement was signed on behalf of the government of Maldives by Minister of Housing, Transport and Environment, Mr Mohamed Aslam, while Ms Fathimath Aleesha Ali, Managing Director of Dhoni Services signed the agreement on behalf of the company.

Speaking at the agreement signing ceremony held this morning at the President’s Office, President Mohamed Nasheed said the key purpose of establishing a nationwide transport network was to free the people from their confinement to their islands and to provide easy access to essential services closer to home for all citizens.

Stressing the importance of transportation for development of a country, the President said without transportation mechanisms of goods and passengers, trade would not prosper.

In his speech, the President also reiterated the government’s commitment to deliver its pledges.

Minister of Housing, Transport and Environment, Mr Mohamed Aslam also spoke at the ceremony. A presentation on how the transport network in South Central Province would be operated was given by Acting Policy Secretary at the President’s Office, Minister of State Aslam Mohamed Shakir.