Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed has said the Maldives, despite its small population and size, is in a good position to capitalise on new and emerging economic development opportunities in the region.
He made the statement speaking at the function held Monday to officially inaugurate a security screening system installed as part of Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA) development project.
Citing that the Government’s economic transformation agenda is aimed at improving the lives of the Maldivians, Saeed said the Government’s infrastructure and national development plans will elevate economic growth to levels comparable to that of other countries in the region.
Highlighting some of the projects underway across the country, Saeed said that 80% of every US dollar entering the economy comes from the tourism sector, and described the INIA development project as a vital investment that will increase the airport’s capacity to accommodate 7 million passengers per annum and expand its commercial area by 60%.
The Government’s mega development projects, including the airport project, aims to capitalise on the opportunities that are available in the region to further the country’s economy, he added.
Responding to criticism from the opposition, Saeed said it was not the time to be resentful towards the government’s developmental achievements, and urged the opposition to work “hand-in-hand” with the government take the country’s forward.
The Economic Minister further assured that the government will deliver its pledge to create 94,000 new jobs during its 5-year term.