The opening of the country's largest marine research centre on Jawakara Islands Maldives marks a significant step towards the potential designation of Lhaviyani Atoll as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, according to the Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at Jawakara resort, Minister Thoriq emphasised the new center's role in focusing on marine life and biodiversity research. He highlighted the importance of such facilities, particularly in the context of the tourism sector and in collaboration with universities, to better manage the nation's marine resources.
The government has been actively working on the initiative to declare Lhaviyani Atoll a biosphere reserve, driven by its rich biodiversity.
"Jawakara Resort is located in Lhaviyani Atoll. The government is working to make Lhaviyani Atoll a biosphere reserve based on its biodiversity. This research center will facilitate us in technical work on the biosphere reserve", he explained.
The Minister also noted that the center will serve as a vital source of information for marine researchers and contribute to enriching the country's overall biodiversity. The state-of-the-art facility will host researchers and various experts dedicated to marine research.
The establishment of the center was undertaken by Champa Brothers, a move lauded by the Minister as a demonstration of the company's commitment to promoting biodiversity in the Maldives. Once designated as a biosphere reserve, Lhaviyani Atoll will benefit from enhanced protection and management of its natural environment, further bolstering its appeal as a beacon of natural beauty and ecological significance.
Studies required for the designation were slated for this year, as previously announced by Minister Thoriq.