President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the views and consultation of industry stakeholders are of the utmost importance in advancing the fisheries sector, and that any input provided will be valued.
The President made these remarks during a meeting with the fishing community in R. Dhuvaafaru as part of celebrations marking this year's Fishermen's Day.
The meeting was attended by a large number of stakeholders from across the country, alongside advocates for fishermen's rights. Participants offered their counsel on sector-specific issues and raised their concerns with the President.
The President gave assurance that no advice or opinion would be in vain. He stated that he would work constructively to resolve the issues raised, highlighting that numerous initiatives are already in progress for the advancement of the industry.
The President noted that the pledges in his fisheries manifesto have been mapped onto a strategic timeline for implementation. He explained that while some commitments have been pursued from day one, others will follow an extended schedule to allow for economic recovery before they are delivered. He emphasised that certain pledges are funded directly by the State, while others will be implemented with support from foreign aid.
Reaffirming his commitment to revitalising the sector, the President announced that he would share positive news at the official Fishermen's Day function scheduled for this evening. He assured stakeholders that he would fulfil these commitments with sincerity, reiterating his genuine desire to see the industry achieve tangible progress.
The President was accompanied by Cabinet Ministers and senior Government officials, while stakeholders also attended the gathering to engage with the fishing community.