News Desk
NEW YORK — In a bold address to the United Nations General Assembly, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu laid out his ambitious vision for the Maldives by 2040—a vision that promises to transform the island nation into a developed, resilient, and inclusive country. As the Maldives looks ahead to celebrating 75 years of independence, the President’s roadmap to prosperity rests on three key pillars: economic transformation, digital revolution, and social equity.
A Vision for Development
At the core of President Muizzu’s speech was a striking assertion: the Maldives, a country of just over half a million people spread across 1,100 islands, will become a fully developed nation by 2040. “Destiny is not mere fate,” Muizzu said, adding, “It’s the consequence of the many choices we make, the many decisions we take, and the many hours we work.”
Muizzu’s message was clear—the Maldives has defied the odds before, transforming from one of the poorest nations in 1965 to upper-middle-income status today.
“In 1965, when we regained independence, we were among the poorest countries in the world. One-third of our population was illiterate. More than one in ten babies died before their first birthday. We had no industries, barely any exports, and even fewer prospects. In just five decades, we have reached upper-middle-income status—a feat we are incredibly proud of.” Dr. Muizzu
Now, the nation is setting its sights on technological innovation, sustainable growth, and digital transformation as the keys to its future success. “With a goal in sight, and a plan in hand, [development] is achievable,” the President affirmed.
Driving Economic Transformation through Technology
Central to the Maldives’ development plan is a shift towards a fully digitized economy, with Muizzu setting an ambitious target for the digital sector to contribute 15% to the nation’s GDP by 2030. “We believe the future is intelligence-driven,” Muizzu declared. He outlined projects such as AI-enhanced technology for environmental monitoring, 5G technology, and drone delivery systems for healthcare supplies as part of the Maldives’ evolving economic landscape.
This focus on technology marks a departure for a country traditionally dependent on tourism. But Muizzu is looking beyond its luxury resorts: “Boosting productivity will be the key to economic transformation,” he said, signaling that digitization and smart systems will not only modernize the economy but also increase resilience against external shocks.
Inclusivity at the Heart of Development
Inclusivity, Muizzu emphasized, is the cornerstone of his vision for a prosperous Maldives. Programs designed to empower women, youth, and people with disabilities were highlighted as central to the country’s future. His government recently launched a $6.5 million loan facility exclusively for women entrepreneurs, with 25% allocated to those with disabilities. “Women and young people will be key players in our development—not mere spectators,” Muizzu said.
In another move to engage the country’s youth, Muizzu announced the creation of the Presidential Youth Advisory Board, tasked with directly informing him on the needs and views of young Maldivians. This signals a clear intention to make development inclusive and participatory. “The result we desire is inclusive development, where equality of access to opportunities is guaranteed,” the President stressed.
A New Era for the Maldives
Muizzu’s plan reflects a broader shift in the Maldives’ approach to development, where economic growth and social equity go hand in hand. “Prevailing and even flourishing against formidable odds is nothing new for Maldivians,” Muizzu stated, invoking national pride and resilience. His vision positions the Maldives not as a vulnerable island nation, but as a forward-looking, determined player in the global arena.
With a nationalistic tune that inspires pride, Muizzu’s speech at the UN called for the Maldives to harness its full potential, both technologically and socially. “By 2040, I wish to see the Maldives as a full-fledged developed nation—a nation that commands respect, is relevant, and one that embodies resilience,” Muizzu declared. His words signal the start of a transformative era for the Maldives, with the promise of a brighter future for all Maldivians.
