Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam has called for greater international support to address the specific challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in global ocean governance and fisheries management.

She made the remarks while speaking at the opening ceremony of the 30th session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission, currently being hosted in Malé. The session brings together regional representatives and stakeholders to discuss sustainable fisheries management and cooperation across the Indian Ocean.

In her address, Minister Iruthisham highlighted the Maldives’ continued role in promoting sustainable fisheries practices and stressed the importance of collective action to address increasing challenges affecting the Indian Ocean region. She noted that effective ocean governance frameworks must recognise the differing realities and capacities of countries, particularly the needs of SIDS.

The minister further stated that technology transfer, adequate financing and capacity-building initiatives remain essential to ensuring meaningful participation of SIDS in global fisheries governance and decision-making processes. She also underscored the importance of strengthening coordination between regional and international frameworks to achieve shared sustainability goals.

Reaffirming the Maldives’ commitment to sustainable fisheries management, minister Iruthisham said the country would continue advocating for stronger international cooperation and policies that support the interests of SIDS. The Maldives has been a member of the IOTC since 2011 and has actively promoted sustainable fisheries and regional collaboration within the organisation.