President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said a long-term national development plan will give the country a clear direction and make it easier for people to move towards common development goals.
Speaking on PSM’s Nation Chat programme, the President highlighted the government’s efforts to move the Maldives from the list of developing countries to the list of developed countries by 2040. While this goal was first announced during his address to the United Nations General Assembly 2024, the President said he chose the UN General Assembly to make the announcement as it is the biggest international platform where countries can present their aspirations to the world.
The President also identified the stopping of major projects and changes in national direction whenever governments change as a major obstacle to development. He said the development master plan is being formulated with the participation of the people and should continue regardless of changes in government.
The President further said the government is working on legislation to give legal protection to the long-term development master plan so that future governments cannot simply change its direction.
Work is underway on a national development plan focusing on preserving culture and Islamic values and discipline, rebuilding the economy, improving people’s livelihoods, social development and environmental sustainability and strengthening institutional management.