Maldivian relief vessel carrying 25,000 tuna cases arrives in Sri Lanka

A vessel operated by Maldives State Shipping (MSS), carrying 25,000 cases of canned tuna donated to Sri Lanka, arrived at Colombo Port this morning as part of the Maldives Government’s humanitarian relief effort following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah. The shipment, transported in 14 containers aboard an MSS vessel, is a key component of the Government’s relief package, which also includes a financial contribution of USD 50,000. According to the State Trading Organisation (STO), the vessel departed Malé earlier this week and reached Sri Lanka last night before docking today.

The Maldivian Embassy in Colombo will formally hand over the consignment later today. The Government described the donation as a reflection of the close and enduring friendship between the Maldives and Sri Lanka, reaffirming solidarity with the Sri Lankan people as they confront one of the worst natural disasters since the 2004 tsunami. Cyclone Ditwah has caused severe destruction across 22 islands, leaving at least 479 people dead, 350 missing, and more than 1.2 million affected.

Alongside the tuna shipment and direct financial aid, the Maldives mobilised nationwide support through the “Ceylon Aa Eku Dhiveheen” telethon, which raised USD 800,000 with contributions from individuals, private companies, state-owned enterprises, and community organisations.