The Maldives has reinforced its position as a global leader in sustainable fisheries management, with Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam championing the nation's commitment to balancing the economic needs of fishing communities with the protection of marine ecosystems.
In his address, during the 30th session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) held in Male’, Minister Shiyam highlighted the remarkable dedication of Maldivian fishermen who continue to venture into the seas daily despite challenging weather conditions, describing their determination as a powerful reminder of why the Commission's work matters so deeply to coastal communities throughout the Indian Ocean region.
Under the visionary leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the government has instituted a comprehensive agenda aimed at strengthening the fisheries sector, modernising industry practices, providing substantive assistance to fishing families, and serving as a responsible steward of marine biodiversity, he said.
The decision to host this significant commission meeting in Male’ underscores the administration's unwavering commitment to these objectives, with Minister Shiyam expressing sincere gratitude to President Muizzu for his instrumental role in making the gathering possible.
Minister Shiyam explained Maldives' philosophy regarding environmental sustainability, emphasising that for this island nation, sustainable fisheries represent far more than abstract political rhetoric or vague aspirational goals. The Minister noted that long before sustainability became a central theme in international environmental discourse, Maldivian societies understood the intrinsic connection between healthy marine ecosystems and the wellbeing of future generations. This traditional wisdom continues to inform contemporary fisheries policy, with the nation's time-honoured fishing practices serving as a model for how fishing can be conducted in harmony with marine environments while minimising harmful impacts on underwater ecosystems.
Minister Shiyam outlined the Maldives' substantial contributions to international conservation efforts targeting economically and ecologically vital yellowfin tuna, noting that the nation has participated actively in population recovery initiatives since 2016. Domestically, authorities have implemented meaningful measures designed to reduce pressure on yellowfin tuna stocks, including substantial modifications to conventional fishing practices and the establishment of a moratorium on long-line fishing methods.
While acknowledging that such measures impose considerable economic and social challenges on small island developing states reliant on fishery exports, the Minister maintained that the Maldives embraced these responsibilities out of conviction regarding the paramount importance of ensuring the long-term sustainability of these shared marine resources.
Minister Shiyam expressed hope that the diligent efforts of responsible fishing nations and the countless small-scale fishermen who depend on healthy oceans would receive full recognition within the Commission's ongoing work. He characterised the Indian Ocean as a vital bridge connecting diverse nations and communities, asserting that the future of this crucial maritime region will ultimately depend upon the collective ability of all stakeholders to collaborate in an atmosphere of mutual trust, equity, and shared responsibility.
The Minister emphasised that the decisions emerging from the current meeting carry profound implications extending far beyond immediate regulatory considerations, touching upon the livelihoods of coastal communities, global food security, public health and quality of life, and the preservation of what remains one of humanity's most valuable natural resources.