World Bank’s Vice President for the South Asia region Hartwig Schafer has expressed intention to explore the digital development potential of the Maldives as part of efforts to build a more resilient economy.
In a video message, the World Bank’s regional vice president stated he is looking forward to visiting the Maldives for the first time since the pandemic started. Vice President Schafer noted COVID-19 shut down tourism streams to the Maldives, disrupting livelihoods and leaving many families in crisis. He added he was glad to hear that the Maldives is on the recovery path, with tourists visiting the country once again.
The regional vice president further noted the World Bank has provided emergency support to strengthen the healthcare system of the Maldives, and expand income support to vulnerable workers and families. He noted the World bank has been a partner for the Maldives for over 40 years, helping the country modernise its fisheries sector, build schools, promote sustainable tourism and transition to renewable energy. He added more work is yet to be done, with the digital development potential of the Maldives expected to play a central role to the partnership in coming years.
Vice President Schafer stated he was excited to engage with youth and women entrepreneurs to discuss how to leverage technology and human capital for green, resilient and inclusive development in the Maldives. He added he also looks forward to learn more about blue agenda embraced by the Maldives to keep beaches clean and pristine.