President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stressed that active youth participation is essential to achieving the Government’s target of increasing the digital economy’s contribution to 15 per cent of national GDP by 2030.

He made the remarks at the Youth Coffee with President session, held at the conclusion of the two-day National Youth Conference organised by the Presidential Youth Advisory Board in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts.

The President highlighted economic diversification as a key driver of national growth and youth opportunity, noting that the Administration is strengthening traditional sectors such as tourism, fisheries and construction while accelerating the expansion of the digital economy. He stated that this approach would create new pathways for young people and expressed confidence in the innovation and capabilities of Maldivian youth.

Describing Maldives 2.0 as the most significant national development initiative for the next three years, the President said the programme would transform public services and daily life. He urged young people to play an active role in its implementation.

He added that legislation to support Maldives 2.0 would be submitted to Parliament during the upcoming sitting, providing a clear legal framework. The consolidation of data across Government agencies, he said, would enable a national data exchange network and improve service delivery.

The President further noted that national identity cards will remain physical while becoming fully digital by the end of 2027, allowing citizens to access all public services online. He emphasised the long-term governance benefits of comprehensive digitalisation and encouraged youth to support citizen onboarding to the platform.

During the session, the President also listened to the concerns raised by young participants, outlined potential responses, and reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, sustainable development and environmental protection.