Maldives seeks rules-based order in Indian Ocean, says president

President Mohamed Muizzu on Wednesday said the Maldives’ vision is for the Indian Ocean to be governed by international law, free from military threats and coercion.

The President made the remarks during a visit to the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP) in Berlin, where he delivered a keynote address on maritime governance and foreign policy.

In his speech, President Muizzu said that while foreign policy was historically shaped by land territory, current global realities require a focus on the oceans. He noted that more than 70 per cent of the Earth’s surface is covered by oceans and that over 90 per cent of global trade is transported by sea.

He said many countries do not place sufficient emphasis on maritime affairs in their foreign policy, but that the Maldives takes a different approach. According to the President, the country’s history, economy, culture and security are closely linked to the sea.

He said the Maldives’ independence and sovereignty depend on rules governing maritime areas under international law, and that ocean governance forms a central pillar of its foreign policy.

“Our vision is clear: an open and inclusive Indian Ocean, governed by international law, free from coercion and excessive militarisation, and anchored in respect for sovereignty,” he said. He added that this vision is grounded in respect for the sovereignty and independence of states.

President Muizzu said maritime security cannot be ensured through competition driven by narrow interests, but requires cooperation and confidence-building measures among states.

He said international law provides protection for smaller states by guaranteeing political independence regardless of size or power. He added that legal frameworks allow disputes to be resolved peacefully and decisions to be made based on principles rather than force.

At a time when international legal norms are being challenged, the President said defending established rules in the maritime domain is necessary. He warned that weakening legal structures at sea would affect the wider international system.

“For small states, these principles are not abstract ideals. They are the foundations of our security. And, quite simply, of our survival,” he said.

Concluding his address, President Muizzu said a foreign policy centred on the oceans is fundamental to the Maldives. He said the Maldives is prepared to work with Germany and other partners to promote cooperation and shared responsibility in the governance of the world’s oceans.