The Maldives and the United States have held talks to strengthen bilateral cooperation and attract investment in the fisheries sector, a cornerstone of the Maldivian economy. Described by the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources as a courtesy call, the meeting took place between Ahmed Shiyam, the Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, and Hugo Yue-Ho Yon, the United States Ambassador to the Maldives.
The discussions reflected a shared interest in advancing engagement within an industry essential to the nation's prosperity. Investment prospects formed a central part of the dialogue, which the ministry said underscored the strategic significance of fisheries in fostering both domestic progress and international collaboration.
Officials also turned their attention to maritime challenges, with a particular focus on Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, an issue that continues to shape regional maritime governance. "They discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation in the fisheries sector, exploring investment opportunities, and enhancing joint efforts to address Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in the region," the ministry stated in a post to social media.
Since assuming office, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's administration has prioritised sectoral revitalisation through a series of targeted initiatives. These efforts fall under a broader strategy for economic development, with the government expressing confidence that prevailing challenges within the industry will be addressed within its tenure.