Function was attended through video conferencing by Shri. Munu Muhawar, High Commissioner of India to The Maldives, H.E. Ahmed Zuhair, Minister of State for Transport and Civil Aviation, Maldivian Ministry, H.E. Hamadh Abdul Ghanee, Deputy Minister for Transport and Civil Aviation, Maldivian Ministry and Capt. Mohamed Nazim, MD, Maldives State Shipping. Function was also graced by Chairman, VOC Port, C & MD, SCI, senior officials from VOC Port Authority, SCI, Customs, MMD, PSA Sical, DBGT Terminals and leading luminaries from the trade fraternity and a sizable media contingent.

Speaking on the occasion, Hon’ble Minister stated that the launch of this historic and pioneering service concretely fulfilled the commitment made by our Prime Minister during his visit to Maldives. Not only did this initiative help to cut logistics and other costs but also enhanced connectivity and reduced the time taken to transport goods between our two countries. Hon’ble Minister further stated that this service added a new chapter to connectivity initiatives taken by both countries in the Indian Ocean Region. The Service also promoted, developed, and stabilized shipping connectivity between Indian and Maldivian ports and will further give impetus to bilateral trade between India and Maldives. Hon’ble Minister, in his address stated that the IMS Service will lead to greater trade and economic opportunities and enhanced maritime trade links with a renewed vigour between the two countries and conveyed his best wishes for the Service.

m.v. MSS Galena was flagged off by Hon’ble Minister at 1600 hours on 05.05.2023 at Tuticorin and commenced her first voyage with her next call scheduled at Male on 07.05.2023. The vessel sailed with 285 TEUs and cargo mix consisted of diverse commodities viz. construction material, PVC Pipes, Cement, Organic Manure, Food items like Vegetables etc.