Special Envoy of the President and former Maldivian President, Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan, delivered a compelling address at the Maldives Tourism and Investment Forum in New York, highlighting the nation’s resilience and long-term development agenda under Vision 2040.

In his remarks, Dr. Waheed reflected on the Maldives’ remarkable transformation from a remote island nation with limited natural resources to a globally renowned tourism destination.

He emphasized that the country’s ability to recover rapidly from global setbacks such as the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic underscored its strength, adaptability, and clear national direction.

Dr. Waheed presented Vision 2040, an ambitious national strategy introduced by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, which aims to elevate the Maldives to developed nation status by the 75th anniversary of its independence.

He noted that the strategy prioritizes diversification of the economy, moving beyond dependence on a single sector, and fostering resilience and global competitiveness.

Addressing a gathering of investors and tourism stakeholders, Dr. Waheed highlighted new initiatives to transform the financial sector, including the establishment of the Maldives International Financial Centre backed by a robust regulatory framework.

He also pointed to ongoing efforts to build sustainable urban hubs and develop the fisheries industry through a more export-oriented approach.

Dr. Waheed assured attendees that the Maldivian economy remains robust, citing a projected 5% growth rate this year, as forecasted by the International Monetary Fund.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to fiscal reform, aimed at securing long-term stability and fostering an investment-friendly environment rooted in trust and transparency.

Underscoring the Maldives’ strategic appeal, Dr. Waheed described the country as one of Asia’s most open and competitive investment destinations.

He concluded by inviting international partners to join the Maldives in its ambitious national journey.