President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has committed to broadening the scope of the state’s health insurance program, Aasandha, to include the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Thailand.
Following his state visit to China, President Muizzu announced during a press briefing upon his return to the Maldives on Saturday his intention to extend Aasandha’s reach to nations renowned for their superior medical services, specifically naming the UAE and Thailand.
President Muizzu elaborated on the plan, stating, “Aasandha’s benefits will soon go beyond just medical treatments in certain regional countries. We’re looking to include nations like the UAE and Thailand, known for their exemplary healthcare services.”
He also mentioned ongoing efforts to encompass accommodation expenses under Aasandha coverage.
“Improvements are underway to upgrade our local health facilities to match, or even surpass, the standards of those in popular destinations like Dubai or Bangkok,” he added.
Furthermore, President Muizzu discussed initiatives aimed at reducing the Maldives’ reliance on singular sources for essential goods like rice, sugar, and flour, by diversifying imports from various countries.
He revealed that an agreement with Turkey has been finalized, with the first order already placed.
“This Ramadan marks a significant step forward, as the government will distribute a 10 kg bag of rice and a 10 kg bag of flour to every household – a first for our nation,” President Muizzu declared.
Expressing optimism for the future, he said, “God willing, we will become self-sufficient and reduce our dependency on external sources.”
President Muizzu also highlighted his government’s efforts to secure pharmaceuticals and medical supplies from Europe and the United States, assuring that these plans would materialize shortly.