Good governance must be a shared priority for small island states, says president

President Mohamed Muizzu has called on Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to make good governance a shared priority, stating that accountability, sound institutions and fiscal discipline are essential to building resilience.

The President made the remarks on Wednesday while delivering the keynote address at the closing ceremony of the SIDS Supreme Audit Institutions (SAI) Symposium, held in AA. Ukulhas from 3 to 5 August, and the opening ceremony of the IDI Global Summit, which commenced on the island on the same day.

President Muizzu said climate change remains the common challenge facing Small Island Developing States, but resilience should not be measured solely by physical infrastructure.

He said resilience depends on strong institutions, responsible fiscal management, transparency and public trust in government.

"Governments across the globe are making substantial investments in climate adaptation, infrastructure development, digital transformation and social development. Every dollar invested in these areas must serve its intended purpose," he said.

"Alongside this, accountability is not merely an administrative obligation. It is a strategic national asset."

The President said effective governance builds public confidence, encourages investment and supports development.

"Thus, accountability is the engine of development," he said.

President Muizzu also said sustainable development and fiscal responsibility are closely linked. He noted that many Small Island Developing States face the challenge of managing public debt while continuing to invest in long-term development and meeting the costs of responding to emergencies.

He said the Maldives faces similar challenges but continues to prioritise debt management alongside investment in the country's future.

"This requires discipline, long-term planning, and, above all, trust in institutions," he said.

The President added that economic resilience depends on prudent management and should remain a priority.

He also highlighted the role of technology in the future of governance, stating that digital transformation provides Small Island Developing States with an opportunity to address shared challenges and improve public services.

President Muizzu said the government's "Maldives 2.0" initiative is aimed at building a citizen-centred digital government.

During the ceremony, the President also launched the Auditor General's Office Strategic Plan for the next five years.