Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has stressed that the Maldives can only achieve meaningful economic progress through collective cooperation, regardless of political differences.
Speaking at the opening of the Addu Business Dialogue, the minister said sustainable economic development requires consensus and collaboration among government institutions, councils, businesses and communities.
Addu Chosen as Starting Point
Minister Saeed described the initiative as part of President Mohamed Muizzu’s broader vision to accelerate development by strategically focusing on key regions across the country, with Addu City selected as the starting point.
According to the minister, the dialogue is expected to shape Addu’s economic direction over the next three years by identifying the main challenges faced by businesses and residents.
A policy paper prepared through the discussions will outline proposed solutions and development priorities for 2027, 2028 and 2029. The document is expected to be submitted to the Cabinet for further deliberation and implementation planning.
Input from Businesses and Communities
Minister Saeed emphasised that the government wants solutions to come directly from the people and businesses operating in Addu, arguing that local stakeholders best understand the obstacles affecting growth.
He urged participants to openly share both their concerns and recommendations, saying the government’s role is to help create the conditions necessary for businesses and communities to progress independently and sustainably.
Collaboration Beyond Political Divides
The minister acknowledged that many within the business community may hold political views different from the current administration, but stressed that economic advancement should transcend political rivalry.
He said recent policies — including the Foreign Investment Act and the Free Trade Agreement with China — demonstrate the effectiveness of consultative approaches involving multiple stakeholders.
According to Saeed, economic development depends on access to land, labour and capital, but noted that government action alone is insufficient without the support of city councils, councillors, institutions and private businesses.
Pilot Project for National Development Vision
Minister Saeed concluded by describing the Addu initiative as a pilot project linked to the government’s longer-term ambition of transforming the Maldives into a developed nation by 2040.
Officials say the dialogue represents an effort to establish a more collaborative model of regional economic planning, with lessons from Addu expected to inform future development strategies across other parts of the country.
