World Bank Vice President for the South Asia Region Johannes Zutt paid a courtesy visit to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu this morning, reaffirming the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the Maldives’ development projects.
The meeting was held at the President’s Official Residence, Muliaage.
During the meeting, President Muizzu highlighted the World Bank’s continued support for the Maldives and expressed his appreciation for its assistance. The two sides discussed key areas of development prioritised by the government, including the digitalisation of public services and strengthening the energy sector.
President Muizzu also underscored the importance of sustained cooperation between the Maldives and the World Bank in advancing these initiatives and achieving the country’s broader development objectives.
Particular attention was given to efforts to reduce the Maldives’ dependence on imported fossil fuels and lower the costs associated with fuel imports. The discussions focused on increasing the use of renewable energy and identifying affordable, reliable and sustainable energy solutions.
The two sides also exchanged views on areas where cooperation in the energy sector could be further expanded.
Discussions further covered support for the health sector and ways to achieve the Maldives’ wider development goals. President Muizzu stressed the importance of ensuring that development projects remain sustainable and are implemented with consideration for the country’s long-term needs, particularly at a time when efforts are being made to reduce expenditure.
The President also assured that the government would continue to support ongoing projects as well as planned development initiatives. He highlighted the important role of the private sector in successfully implementing such projects and advancing national development.
World Bank Vice President Johannes Zutt, meanwhile, reaffirmed the Bank’s readiness to support the Maldives in areas where it can provide assistance.
He also highlighted the significant potential for expanding the use of renewable energy as a means of reducing the Maldives’ dependence on imported fuel and mitigating the vulnerabilities associated with fuel imports.
