President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has stated that the top priority of his administration was achieving economic resilience. The President further noted that the newly introduced Special Economic Zones framework provides special economic incentives and introduces a flexible environment for mega investments in the Maldives. President Yameen made the remarks during the joint press statement with the Malaysian Prime Minister.
Speaking at the official talks, President Yameen underscored that foreign direct investment was imperative for private sector development and boost overall economic growth. Moreover, the President encouraged investors from Malaysia to take up such opportunities to forge meaningful and mutually beneficial partnerships with the Maldives. During the official talks, President proposed the facilitation of a youth exchange programme for Maldivian and Malaysian youth to share experiences and to learn from each other's culture.
The Malaysian Prime Minister shared some of his administration's key strategies towards making government and state services even more accessible to the people and highlighted that Malaysian businesses are currently investing in the Maldives and looking towards further key investments and projects in the Maldives. The Prime Minister noted that Malaysia places great emphasis on infrastructure and development; including public housing, underlining that both countries are suited as development partners.
Prior to the joint press statement, President Yameen and the Malaysian Prime Minister had a one-to-one meeting at the President's Office. During the talks, President Yameen and the Malaysian Prime Minister emphasised that Malaysia and Maldives can be an example of what the true, and peaceful, values of the Islamic faith stands for.