The Maldives reinforced its commitment to sustainable marine resource management and coastal economic development at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Summit on Small-Scale Fisheries, held from September 4 to 6 in Rome, Italy.
Representing the nation’s primary fleet, Samrath Hassan, a fisher from Gaafu Dhaalu Madaveli operating aboard the vessel Kamana, joined international delegates, government officials, civil society groups, and research institutions to address future strategies for small-scale fisheries.
During the summit, Hassan presented key operational insights on the central role local fishers play in driving the Maldivian economy and supporting community livelihoods. The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources highlighted that the delegation successfully raised global awareness of the specific economic and environmental challenges confronting the island nation’s coastal fishing sectors.
As a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) highly dependent on healthy marine ecosystems, the Maldives utilized the event to foster global and regional cooperation. The ministry affirmed that empowering small-scale operators through sustainable management protocols remains vital to safeguarding both national food security and long-term economic resilience.