<span style="color: #222222;">India is providing assistance to the Maldives to tackle the COVID-19 crisis as the neighboring country declared a state of public health emergency to fight the situation. High Commission of India in Male said that a team of health experts from India will be reaching tomorrow to assist the Maldives' health care workers in the fight against Covid-19. The team will consist of anesthesiologists, pulmonologists, physicians and lab technicians. The statement said that the government will also donate essential medicines required for treatment despite the temporary export ban by India, as a special goodwill gesture to government and people of Maldives.<br />''<br />''Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid said in a message that India has once again proved to be a true friend in need of Maldives. He thanked Prime Minister Modi and the Indian Government for its generous assistance and solidarity at this challenging time. Maldives has detected a few cases among locals and foreigners infected by COVID while several others are under observation. Health Minister Abdulla Ameen declared a public health emergency for a 30-day period effective today to tackle the situation. Meanwhile, the country's Election Commission is expected to take a decision on postponing the upcoming local council and women's development committee elections scheduled for the 3rd of next month. Vice-President of the Elections Commission Ahmed Akram said a decision will be taken after discussions with the Covid-19 monitoring committee.</span><br />