The 30th Session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission has officially commenced in Malé, bringing together ministers and heads of delegations from countries across the Indian Ocean region to discuss the future of tuna fisheries and regional cooperation.

The opening ceremony of the annual session was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed and Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam amongst other officials.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Minister Shiyam highlighted the longstanding connection between Maldivians and the ocean, stressing the importance of sustainable fisheries for coastal communities and national livelihoods. He stated that the Government under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu continues to prioritise strengthening and modernising the fisheries sector while supporting fishing communities across the country.

Minister Shiyam speaking at the ceremony --- 

The minister also underscored the Maldives’ continued commitment to sustainable tuna fisheries and support for conservation and fisheries reform measures aimed at strengthening yellowfin tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean. He noted that regional cooperation remains essential to ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine resources.

MinisterShiyam further stated that the decisions taken during the session would directly influence food security, economic opportunities and the future development of fisheries across the Indian Ocean region, while calling for closer collaboration among member states.