The Maldivian government has commenced efforts to ensure the uninterrupted supply of fuel and essential food items to the country.

Following the onset of military strikes in the Middle East involving global powers and regional states, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu established a special ministerial committee yesterday to coordinate preemptive measures and address any challenges that may arise for the Maldivian people due to the escalating conflict.

In a press statement issued last night, the Ministry of Finance stated that the financial and economic ministries are closely monitoring potential shifts in the country's fiscal and economic landscape resulting from these disturbances.

The Ministry assured the public that it is working continuously with relevant state institutions to prepare for and implement swift measures against any risks the Maldives might face.

"As the Maldives primarily imports its fuel through Oman, the Ministry, in collaboration with the State Trading Organization (STO), is identifying potential challenges to the fuel supply chain and taking steps to ensure an uninterrupted supply," the Finance Ministry noted.

The Ministry further explained that since the Maldivian economy is heavily reliant on tourism, it is meticulously analyzing the potential impacts of Middle Eastern instability on tourist arrivals and international travel networks. Based on these studies, plans are in place to adapt fiscal policies as necessary to maintain macroeconomic stability and ensure the continuous delivery of public services.

"According to the latest statistics from the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), the country’s reserves are currently maintained at historically high levels. This will provide significant leverage for the government to manage economic shocks from the global market, facilitate funds for imports, and robustly implement necessary economic measures," the Ministry added.

The Ministry of Finance reaffirmed its priority to strengthen the state's financial system and maintain economic stability, pledging to take all necessary steps to uphold fiscal confidence during this period.

In a related statement issued last night, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade mentioned that it is identifying potential disruptions to regular import markets and routes and is working to secure alternative markets.

"At this juncture, the government's primary focus is to guarantee the security of food and essential commodities for all Maldivians. We assure the public that all necessary measures are being taken, in coordination with state institutions and private businesses, to maintain stocks of essential items and resolve any import challenges," the Economic Ministry stated.

The Ministry added that the administration remains committed to prioritizing economic stability and ensuring easy access to basic goods for the citizens.

The special committee established by the President to coordinate these efforts comprises nine ministers:

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel (Committee Chair)Minister of Defence, Mohamed Ghassan MaumoonMinister of Finance, Moosa ZameerMinister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed SaeedMinister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed AmeenMinister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali IhusaanMinister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy, Thoriq IbrahimMinister of Housing, Land and Urban Development, Dr. Ali HaidarMinister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed