Vice President Calls for Equitable Climate Action to Safeguard Marine Biodiversity and Livelihoods

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has emphasised the need for a just climate transition to limit global warming and protect marine biodiversity. He made these remarks at the Opening Ceremony of the Third China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Blue Economy Development Cooperation, in Kunming, China.

In his address, the Vice President highlighted that the ocean has sustained the livelihoods and shaped the identity of Maldivians as the children of the sea for centuries, and that fisheries and tourism are primary income sources for the Maldives. He noted that tourism and fisheries industries are heavily impacted by climate change, marine pollution, and Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, adding that it threatens fish stocks, coastal livelihoods, and food security. He further pointed out that Maldives’ traditional ethical fisheries, such as pole-and-line fishing, ensure zero by-catch and no harm to marine habitats, as mandated by law.

The Vice President also stressed that Small Island Developing States like the Maldives bear a disproportionate climate burden despite minimal emissions. He emphasised the Maldives’ efforts to adapt to and mitigate climate change impacts with limited resources. He spoke on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s ambitious plans to scale up climate action and his commitment to sustainable development by utilising the blue economy.

Before concluding his statement, the Vice President stated that China is a reliable partner to the Maldives through a strong bilateral relationship, and expressed gratitude for China’s continued support for the development of the Maldives.