Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed has invited Italian businesses to explore investment opportunities in the Maldives, as the government seeks to expand trade and economic ties between the two countries.
The minister made the invitation while speaking at a ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Italy and Italy’s 80th National Day.
Highlighting the strong relations established since diplomatic ties were formalised in 1966, Minister Saeed noted the longstanding people-to-people connections between the two countries and Italy’s special place in the history of Maldivian tourism.
He recalled the contribution of Italian pioneers, including George Corbin, who helped introduce the Maldives to international tourists in the early 1970s. Their efforts played an important role in establishing tourism as a key pillar of the Maldivian economy, he said.
Minister Saeed said Italy remains one of the Maldives’ most important tourism markets, currently ranking fifth among countries sending the highest number of visitors to the Maldives.
"Strong ties have developed between the people of the two countries. Italy has always held a special place in the history of Maldivian tourism. It is still the fifth-largest source market for tourist arrivals to the Maldives," the minister said.
He said there was considerable potential to expand economic and commercial cooperation beyond tourism, particularly in technology, innovation and sustainable development.
The minister highlighted Italy’s achievements in these fields, describing them as valuable opportunities for strengthening economic cooperation with the Maldives.
He also stressed the importance of working together to address challenges posed by climate change, protect marine ecosystems and strengthen cooperation in international forums.
Minister Saeed said the 60 years of diplomatic relations had established a strong foundation of trust and partnership between the two countries, expressing hope that cooperation would continue to grow and bring greater prosperity to their people.