President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated it is the responsibility of all Maldivians to safeguard and conserve oceans for future generations. The president made the statement at the event held by Maldives Marine Research Institute in association with Blue Prosperity Coalition at Neykurendhoo, Haa Dhaalu Atoll.
Speaking at the event, President Solih expressed gratitude to the partners of the Blue Prosperity Coalition and Maldives Marine Research Institute involved in the Maldives Expedition, citing it is by far the most detailed research expedition launched to survey oceans. He noted tourism and fisheries are the largest economic drive forces of the country and the expedition will gather much-needed statistics to assist policymakers in making more informed decisions.
The president emphasised the research will be conducted in two phases, adding research teams will conduct a biodiversity census at the initial phase and evaluate the factors affecting the biodiversity of the ocean. He added the results of the research will be made available as a publication.
Speaking in the same regard, President Solih stressed the second phase of the research will focus on deriving policies in accordance with the research outcomes. He added the research will assist Maldives in implementing a truly Blue Economy that will balance economic growth with the sustainability of marine resources.
The president further noted councillors will play a pivotal role in the implementation of conservation efforts which fall under their respective jurisdictions, since the amendments to the Decentralisation Act grant more autonomy to administrative councils.