UN Representatives Hail President Muizzu’s Economic Vision for Small Island Nations

United Nations representatives have commended President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for his leadership and advocacy in promoting the economic resilience and growth of Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The praise came during the opening ceremony of the SIDS Global Business Network Forum, an event specifically designed to address the unique challenges facing small island economies. Walton Webson, the Permanent Representative of Antigua and Barbuda to the UN, lauded the President’s international advocacy, stating that his priorities align with the long-standing demands of island nations. Webson further described the Maldives as a model for other small economies to follow, noting that the President's strategic focus provides a roadmap for sustainable development. In his address to the forum, President Muizzu emphasized that his administration is prioritizing the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He outlined a clear vision to improve financial access for these businesses, recognizing that SMEs are the backbone of island economies. The President specifically highlighted the need for increased financial assistance and empowerment for young entrepreneurs and women, ensuring that economic growth is inclusive and equitable. Adding to the praise via video message, UN Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States, Rabab Fatima, noted the continuity between the 2024 SIDS Forum in Barbuda and the current proceedings in the Maldives. Fatima emphasized that President Muizzu's approach goes beyond rhetoric, stating that he is taking practical, results-driven steps to support the entrepreneurial spirit of the youth and small business owners. By centering the conversation on financial empowerment and the removal of barriers for SMEs, the Maldives is positioning itself as a leading voice for SIDS on the global stage, advocating for systemic changes that allow small economies to thrive despite their geographic and scale-related limitations.