The Maldives and Türkiye have discussed opportunities available under the preferential trade arrangements signed between the two countries, including provisions that provide duty exemptions on selected goods.
The discussions took place during the official visit of Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam, to Türkiye.
On the sidelines of the Zero Waste Forum, Minister Shiyam paid a courtesy call on Türkiye’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı.
During the meeting, the two ministers discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in the agriculture and fisheries sectors. The minister expressed appreciation for the continued assistance and cooperation extended by the Turkish government to the Maldives.
A key focus of the discussions was the implementation of agriculture and fisheries-related initiatives under the Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) and the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries.
The ministers stressed the importance of accelerating efforts to implement the agreements, which provide duty exemptions on specific products and are intended to facilitate trade between the Maldives and Türkiye.
Both sides also noted the need to translate commitments made under the agreements into practical measures that would deliver tangible benefits and enhance trade opportunities for businesses in both countries.
The meeting concluded with the Maldives and Türkiye reaffirming their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in agriculture and fisheries. The two countries also expressed their shared commitment to promoting sustainable development, enhancing food security and creating new opportunities for collaboration in sectors of mutual interest.
Minister Shiyam is currently in Türkiye to participate in the Zero Waste Forum, which was held from 5 to 7 June.