The United States has provided $20 million in assistance to the Maldives since 2001. Initiatives have ranged from protecting the coral reef ecosystems to building the capacity of government bodies to advance sound economic and democratic policies.

Following the Indian Ocean tsunami in 2004, the United States allocated $12 million for relief and reconstruction assistance for the Maldives.  While immediate relief activities were concluded within the six months following the tsunami, longer-term reconstruction projects included upgrading damaged water supply systems on two islands, constructing a harbor and breakwater, upgrading sewage systems, and repairing power systems.