Minister of Finance and Planning, Moosa Zameer, has said that the Maldives is proud to be among the countries supported by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and looks forward to further strengthening and expanding its relationship with the Bank in the years ahead.

Speaking at the Business Roundtable on “Building on a Decade of Impact,” held during AIIB’s 10th Annual Meeting in Beijing, China, Minister Zameer highlighted AIIB’s evolution over the past decade into a credible and active institution within the global development architecture.

The Minister noted that AIIB’s membership now represents over 81 percent of the world’s population and 65 percent of global GDP. He said the Bank has established a strong foundation based on financial discipline, strategic partnerships, and a clear mission—enabling it to engage with a changing global landscape, respond to emerging challenges, and support the development of sustainable infrastructure.

Minister Zameer said the current era, often referred to as the “Asian Century,” reflects Asia’s growing economic influence and increasing demand for infrastructure. He noted that AIIB has responded to this shift with foresight and strategic focus by promoting collaboration and shared prosperity through infrastructure and investment.

Despite ongoing global economic challenges, shifting trade dynamics, and rising protectionism, Minister Zameer observed that AIIB has remained committed to multilateralism. He cited the Bank’s establishment of a US$20 billion COVID-19 Crisis Recovery Facility as a significant example of its timely and effective support for member countries during critical periods.

The Minister emphasised that the Maldives, like many other small island developing states, is especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. He noted the Government’s target for renewable energy to meet 33 percent of the country’s energy needs by 2028.

He also highlighted AIIB’s contribution of US$40 million towards the Waste-to-Energy project in the Maldives—part of a broader US$140 million initiative—as a key step towards sustainable and environmentally responsible infrastructure development.

With AIIB having invested over US$60 billion in more than 300 projects worldwide, the Minister reiterated that the Maldives is proud to be one of its beneficiaries. He expressed hope for expanding direct cooperation with the Bank and other member countries.

Minister Zameer also underscored the importance of enhancing AIIB’s technical capacity and involvement during the early stages of project planning, which he said would enable the Bank to play a more effective role in supporting member countries’ development goals.

Minister Zameer reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to its partnership with AIIB and expressed optimism for the future. He stated that this journey has strengthened ties, created opportunities for shared progress, and delivered mutually beneficial outcomes.