Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iruthisham Adam, has called for enhanced international support to address the unique challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in global ocean governance.

The Minister made the remarks while attending the opening ceremony of the 30th Session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), currently being held in Male’.

In her address, Minister Iruthisham highlighted the Maldives’ longstanding contributions to advancing sustainable fisheries management and underscored the urgent need to protect the Indian Ocean amid increasing environmental and economic pressures.

She stressed that effective ocean governance frameworks must take into account the differing capacities and realities of countries, particularly SIDS, which face distinct vulnerabilities.

Emphasising inclusivity, she noted that global approaches should be tailored to ensure that smaller states are adequately represented and supported.

Minister Iruthisham further pointed out that strengthening access to technology transfer, securing adequate financing, and enhancing capacity-building initiatives are critical to enabling meaningful participation of SIDS in global fisheries management.

Reaffirming the Maldives’ commitment to sustainable fisheries, she also highlighted the importance of aligning global and regional efforts to achieve shared objectives, calling for deeper cooperation among member states.

The Maldives is hosting the 30th Session of the IOTC from 11 to 15 May 2026. Since becoming a member in 2011, the country has maintained an active role within the Commission, particularly in advocating for the interests of SIDS in sustainable fisheries management.