United Nations Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, Ms. Kanni Wignaraja, has successfully concluded her three-day official mission to the Maldives. During her visit, she engaged in high-level discussions with government officials, including cabinet ministers and the Chief Justice, and met with representatives from development partners, local communities, and civil society organisations. The focus of these meetings was on enhancing UNDP’s support for the Maldives’ development priorities and fostering collaboration to address key national challenges.
“The Maldives has come a long way, making significant strides in democratic governance, environmental conservation, and human development. However, like many developing nations, it faces challenges with rising debt, limited cash flow, and high borrowing costs, alongside growing inequalities and an escalating climate crisis,” said Ms. Wignaraja. “For over 45 years, UNDP has been a steadfast partner to the Maldives. Our relationship is built on trust and innovation, as we work together towards a future where the economy works for everyone, and nature is preserved.”
The mission commenced with the launch of the Maldives’ first solar-powered Agriboat, an innovative initiative aimed at reducing post-harvest losses, lowering emissions, and improving market access for farmers. This event was held in collaboration with the Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives and national counterparts, showcasing the Maldives’ commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Ms. Wignaraja also visited Fuvahmulah, where she launched the ‘Maldives Resilient Reef Ecosystem and Economy for the Future’ (Maldives RREEF) Project, a key initiative to protect reef ecosystems while promoting sustainable economic growth. During the visit, the Australian High Commissioner pledged AUD 5 million over five years to support conservation efforts and renewable energy initiatives in the Maldives.
The mission also featured the unveiling of the Maldives Sustainability Reporting Framework, the country’s first Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Framework, developed in partnership with the Capital Market Development Authority (CMDA). This significant milestone aims to engage the private sector in sustainable development efforts.
Concluding her visit, Ms. Wignaraja delivered an address at a policy dialogue on financing for sustainable development and participated in a civic space conversation. The mission underscored UNDP’s long-standing commitment to the Maldives’ development goals, as highlighted in a celebratory event co-hosted by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, marking over 45 years of partnership between the UNDP and the Maldives.
