Minister of ForeignAffairs Iruthisham Adam has stressed the importance of further strengthening economic ties between the Maldives and Japan, saying the Government will work to increase Japanese investment and build mutually beneficial relations between the two countries.

Speaking at a business webinar organised by the Embassy of Japan, Minister Iruthisham said the Maldives and Japan enjoy close and friendly relations founded on trust, mutual respect and cooperation. She noted that bilateral cooperation has expanded over the years across construction, fisheries, environmental protection, disaster management and human resource development.

The minister said the Government places a high priority on deepening economic relations with Japan, particularly as changes in the global investment landscape increase the need for reliable partners and markets offering sustainable opportunities.

While the Maldives is widely recognised as a tourism destination, Minister Iruthisham said the country also offers considerable opportunities beyond the sector. She said economic diversification remains a key Government priority, with reforms underway to strengthen the investment climate, modernise the regulatory framework and create a more conducive environment for businesses.

Highlighting Japan’s position as one of the world’s most advanced economies, the minister said Japanese companies’ innovative approaches and use of technology could support the Maldives’ development. She also emphasised the need to facilitate greater Japanese investment and expand mutually beneficial cooperation.

The webinar highlighted opportunities in bunkering, maritime services, renewable energy, financial services, industrial development, Special Economic Zones, digital trade, e-commerce and the creative economy. Participants were also briefed on the investment climate, available opportunities and policies introduced to support foreign investors.