Discussions Held on Increasing UNDP Cooperation in Maldives Fisheries Sector

Discussions have been held on ways to increase the cooperation of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to advance the fisheries industry of the Maldives.

These discussions were held during a meeting today between the Minister of Fisheries, Ahmed Shiyam, and the newly appointed UNDP Resident Representative to the Maldives, Adnan Cheema.

The discussions at the meeting held at the Fisheries Ministry focused on ways to increase UNDP's cooperation in promoting a sustainable and resilient blue economy. In this regard, the two officials discussed strengthening areas of cooperation such as increasing value addition through improved fish processing, advancing sustainable financing systems, empowering women engaged in small-scale fish processing, and increasing the resilience of the fisheries sector.

During the meeting, Minister Shiyam highlighted the Ministry's strategic priorities and the important role of the Maldives Marine Research Institute (MMRI) in supporting sustainable fisheries.

Regarding the meeting, UNDP stated that it sees strong opportunities to strengthen ties to take impactful measures considering climate change, by increasing the financial assistance provided through the program, as well as assistance in the areas of climate-friendly fisheries and reef insurance.