Shauna warns of ocean, tourism risks from oil, mineral exploration
President Mohamed Muizzu on Tuesday revised the list of projects that require a minimum investment of USD 100 million.
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Former Environment Minister Aiminath Shauna on Wednesday raised concerns over the inclusion of offshore oil and mineral exploration among the economic activities permitted for investment in Special Economic Zones (SEZs), saying the move could affect the ocean environment and the tourism sector.
President Mohamed Muizzu on Tuesday revised the list of projects that require a minimum investment of USD 100 million. The revised list expands existing provisions on gas exploration to include oil, gas and mineral exploration.
In a post on X, Shauna said it was concerning that deep-sea mining and oil exploration activities in the Maldives would be facilitated under the revised framework.
She said such activities pose risks to marine ecosystems and could affect fisheries and tourism. Shauna said the decision could have long-term consequences for ocean resources.
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