Senior officials from the Maldives and Saudi Arabia convened on Thursday to explore expanded bilateral cooperation in the fisheries sector and broader blue economy development. The meeting was held between Ahmed Shiyam, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, and Yahya Hassan Alqahtani, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to the Maldives. Discussions focused on deepening collaboration in ocean resource development, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to long-term strategic engagement.
According to the fisheries ministry, the dialogue centred on modernising the Maldivian fisheries industry. The conversation also addressed the scope of Saudi technical and financial assistance to support the country's blue economy, which the ministry characterised as "highly productive", underscoring its contribution to strengthening diplomatic and development ties.
Minister Shiyam conveyed appreciation for Saudi Arabia's continued support, particularly through the Saudi Fund for Development. Ambassador Alqahtani affirmed his government's intent to sustain and strengthen development assistance.
Plans outlined during the meeting identified key areas for cooperation, including the expansion of cold storage facilities in Mulah, Meemu Atoll, and Kooddoo, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, as well as support for research and conservation efforts crucial to marine resource management.
"The Minister expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia's continued support through the Saudi Fund for Development, particularly key investments in harbour development and cold storage in M. Mulah and GA. Kooddoo, and reaffirmed commitment to advancing collaboration in trade, research & conservation," the ministry stated in a post to social media.
The initiative aligns with broader reforms introduced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's administration, which seeks to diversify and revitalise the fisheries sector. A central aim is to establish the industry as a leading source of national revenue. To that end, the government has implemented a payment mechanism ensuring that fishermen receive earnings within 48 hours of landing their catch, a measure credited with increasing sector engagement.