The Maldives and Türkiye have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in agriculture and fisheries, with both countries focusing on advancing activities outlined under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).
The discussions took place during a meeting between Fisheries and Ocean Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam and Türkiye’s Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı, in Istanbul.
According to the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources, the meeting centred on enhancing bilateral collaboration and accelerating the implementation of agriculture and fisheries-related initiatives agreed under the existing MoU and PTA between the two countries.
Both ministers stressed the importance of translating the agreements into practical projects and collaborative programmes capable of delivering tangible benefits to both nations. The discussions also covered opportunities to strengthen cooperation in support of sustainable development, food security and sectoral growth.
Minister Shiyam conveyed the Maldives’ appreciation for Türkiye’s continued support and assistance, while both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral ties.
The meeting took place during Shiyam’s visit to Türkiye to participate in the High-Level Ministerial Panel on Agriculture: Reducing Post-Harvest Losses – Enhancing Efficiency in the Food Supply Chain.
During the panel, Shiyam highlighted the Maldives’ efforts to reduce post-harvest losses in both the agriculture and fisheries sectors. He outlined initiatives aimed at improving value chain efficiency, strengthening food security and enhancing the sustainability of production systems.
The minister also drew attention to challenges faced by small island developing states, including geographical dispersion, limited economies of scale, logistical constraints and vulnerability to climate change. He emphasised the need for innovative and context-specific solutions to improve food system resilience.
Addressing participants at the panel, Shiyam underscored the importance of cooperation among governments, private sector stakeholders, research institutions, development partners and local farming and fishing communities to reduce waste and build more resilient food supply chains.
He also reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to international collaboration on knowledge-sharing, capacity-building and sustainable food system development.
