Maritime connectivity should not be viewed solely as a transport issue, but as one linked to development and climate concerns, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen has stated.
The Minister made the statement while speaking as a panelist during the ‘Maritime Connectivity for Island and Coastal Nations: Shared Opportunities, Distinct Challenges’ session held as part of the Global Transport Connectivity Forum 2025. The Global Transport Connectivity Forum 2025 currently being held in Istanbul, Türkiye, from 27 to 29 June.
Speaking at the session, Minister Ameen emphasised the importance of transportation in the Maldives due to its geographical constraints. The Minister said the government is prioritising inter-island connectivity by developing ferry networks, well-constructed harbours and digital scheduling systems to ensure that even the smallest islands in the country are adequately served.
The Minister also stressed the importance of the blue economy, and noted efforts in developing sustainable fisheries, promoting marine tourism beyond the capital, inter-island logistics and offshore energy. The Minister said the full benefits of these sectors can be obtained by improving maritime connectivity in an environmentally sustainable way.
"SAARC and IORA are working together to improve maritime safety standards, enhance disaster preparedness and develop harbours and ferry systems. We welcome further partnerships that will strengthen and support transparent engagement between islands and coastal nations," the Minister said.
Minister Ameen also stressed the need for financial assistance, especially in the form of grants and investment related to climate change mitigation measures. He also noted that technology, skills development and capacity building are also important. However, he reiterated that the most important need is for the global community to recognise maritime connectivity for island nations not only as a transportation issue, but also as a development and climate issue.
Minister Ameen's visit to Turkiye to attend the Global Transport Connectivity Forum 2025 is part of the government’s efforts to strengthen international relations in areas critical to the country's development. The main objective of the forum is to bring together transport ministers, heads of international organisations, financial institutions, private sector leaders, and professionals from around the world for high-level discussions on the development and optimisation of global transport networks.
The three-day forum will feature more than 20 thematic panel sessions, with focus on sustainable development, environmentally responsible reform, and enhanced regional cooperation at the global level. The forum will focus on how to integrate and better develop global transport networks, overcome investment gaps in essential infrastructure, and enhance cooperation between governments, international financial institutions and private sector stakeholders.
Inaugurated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the forums serve as an important platform for strategic discussions on ongoing priorities, practical realities and avenues of cooperation in shaping the future of maritime connectivity between different countries and institutions.