The Government of the Maldives and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to environmental collaboration, following high-level talks between Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim and US Ambassador Hugo Yon. The meeting at the Environment Ministry in Malé, centred on accelerating foreign investment in clean energy, particularly solar and other renewable technologies.
Officials said the meeting marked a significant step in expanding strategic cooperation between the two countries, with clean energy highlighted as a shared priority. Both sides explored how the US could support the Maldives in addressing pressing environmental challenges, including the transition to renewable energy and broader climate resilience efforts.
The Maldivian government, under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, has been working to restructure the national energy landscape with a focus on low-carbon alternatives. A flagship example is the ‘Solar City’ initiative, announced in July during President Muizzu’s state visit to Singapore. Touted as the first Special Economic Zone (SEZ) project of the current administration, it is now in the implementation stage, with development underway for a 100-megawatt floating solar photovoltaic (PV) system.
The discussions also reflect growing international interest in supporting small island nations like the Maldives, which face heightened exposure to the impacts of climate change. According to the ministry, both governments expressed a shared interest in joint initiatives that advance clean energy and environmental sustainability, while strengthening diplomatic ties through practical collaboration.
