Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail has stated environmental protection is crucial for the efforts to diversify the economy and bring sustainable development to the Maldives.
The minister made the remarks at the inauguration of the NooRaajje programme, conducted in association with the Blue Prosperity Coalition as part of efforts to implement the government’s Blue Economy policies.
Speaking at the event, Economic Minister Fayyaz said the marine environment is a major part of the everyday lives of Maldivians, noting climate change and the resulting impact on the environment is a major threat to the livelihood of the Maldivian people. Therefore, he said it is crucial that the country takes the necessary measures to mitigate the impact of climate change.
The minister further noted the government’s development plans are focused on diversifying the economy by facilitating smart investments and the progress of the private sector. He said economic diversification plans go hand-in-hand with environmental protection, as sustainable development cannot be achieved without preserving the environment.
In his speech, the economic minister welcomed the NooRaajje programme, calling it an important step towards the achievement of a Blue Economy. He said the economic ministry will provide its full cooperation and support for the programme.
The NooRaajje programme will run from 2020 through 2024, and comprise of scientific expeditions into the Maldives’ ocean spaces, shaping policy on the proper use of marine resources, and consultations with communities to devise better means of protecting the Maldives’ marine ecosystems.