Maldives to Host Global Summits on Small Island Economic Development

The Maldives will host two major international forums focused on the economic resilience and business growth of small island developing nations. Scheduled for August 23 to 25 at the Barceló Nasandhura in Malé, the events include the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Global Business Network Forum 2026 and the inaugural Island Investment Forum. The summits are a collaborative effort between the Maldivian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Economic Development, Transport and Trade, the government of Antigua and Barbuda, and the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS). These gatherings are a direct result of diplomatic initiatives led by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during the fourth SIDS conference in 2024. Having served as a vice president at that conference, President Muizzu chaired key plenary sessions and led Maldivian delegations in efforts to secure sustainable financial resources and strengthen strategic global partnerships. The Global Business Network Forum, established in 2014, is a biennial event designed to bridge the gap between enterprises, investors, donors, and civil society to address systemic trade challenges. Complementing this is the newly launched Island Investment Forum, operating under the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States (ABAS). This forum aims to identify untapped commercial opportunities and attract foreign direct investment to vulnerable island economies. During the events, the Maldives will showcase its developmental milestones in critical sectors, including tourism, fisheries, renewable energy, and environmental protection. The summits are expected to attract over 200 delegates representing more than 30 countries, positioning Malé as a central hub for South-South cooperation and sustainable economic strategy.