The Maldives has used a policy forum in Berlin to frame ocean governance as a strategic foreign policy issue rather than solely an environmental concern, positioning maritime security and climate vulnerability at the centre of its diplomatic agenda.
During his official visit to Germany at the invitation of President Frank-Walter Steinmeier, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu visited the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Auswärtige Politik, the German Council on Foreign Relations. He was received by Rolf Nikel, Vice-President of the institution, Thomas Kleine-Brockhoff, Director of DGAP, and Dr Kira Vinke, Deputy Research Director and Head of the Centre for Climate and Foreign Policy.
In a keynote address, President Muizzu argued that the ocean remains insufficiently integrated into global strategic thinking despite its central role in climate regulation, biodiversity and food security. He said the Maldives’ history, economy, culture and security are closely tied to the ocean, and that climate change continues to affect the country’s economic stability and daily life.
The President noted that the Maldives is situated along major trade routes within an Indian Ocean region increasingly shaped by geopolitical competition. He described the area as one of the most consequential theatres of the 21st century, drawing attention to the need for cooperation to safeguard maritime routes and undersea digital infrastructure, which carries the majority of global data traffic. He called for shared norms and international collaboration to reduce risks to this infrastructure.
President Muizzu also highlighted the role of small states in shaping international norms, particularly in climate diplomacy and marine protection. He said that for small island developing states, an ocean-centred foreign policy is closely linked to long-term survival, while also carrying wider implications for global governance.
In a question-and-answer session following the address, the President outlined the Maldives’ approach to ocean security and sustainability. He referred to maintaining strong relations with neighbouring countries and partners, respect for territorial integrity and environmental protection as guiding principles. He also pointed to efforts to strengthen capacity to safeguard the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone.
Marking six decades of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Germany, President Muizzu said there remains scope to expand bilateral cooperation, including in areas such as shore protection and climate adaptation.
The engagement at DGAP formed part of a broader programme of meetings during the President’s visit to Germany, which has focused on political dialogue, climate cooperation and strategic affairs.
