President Muizzu Reaffirms New VIA Terminal as Government’s Top Priority

News

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reaffirmed that completing and commencing operations at the new passenger terminal of Velana International Airport (VIA) remains the Government’s top priority. He made the remarks during the eighth episode of the Rayyithunaa Eku podcast series, aired ahead of the country’s upcoming 60th Independence Day celebrations.

Reflecting on his administration’s focus during the transition period, President Muizzu revealed that the first issue reviewed was the progress of the VIA development project. He stressed that the terminal's completion is critical to the Government’s national development goals.

“The new terminal will bring substantial economic progress and unlock new opportunities in the tourism sector,” he said, describing the airport as the country’s most important economic asset. He emphasized that progress at the airport benefits every Maldivian, as it is closely tied to the nation's economic growth, connectivity, and well-being.

Preparations are currently underway to inaugurate the new terminal on 26 July, in conjunction with the 60th anniversary of the Maldives' independence. The President noted the significance of the milestone and acknowledged the contributions of past Heads of State to the airport’s development journey.

In his remarks, President Muizzu also discussed the status of regional airports and ongoing airport development projects across the country, reaffirming his Government’s commitment to enhancing aviation infrastructure nationwide.

As the nation looks ahead to Independence Day, the President shared his vision for a peaceful, united Maldives, saying:

The new terminal is set to be a transformational addition to the Maldives' primary gateway, representing the country’s aspirations for modernisation, prosperity, and unity.