President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to be recognised as sources of innovation and enterprise, rather than solely as countries vulnerable to climate change.

Speaking at the opening of the SIDS Global Business Network (GBN) Forum 2026 and Island Investment Forum in the Maldives, the President said SIDS have turned geographical and economic challenges into opportunities through innovation and determination.

He highlighted micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) as key drivers of SIDS economies, noting that their small scale can provide an advantage by allowing island states to test new ideas, technologies and solutions.

President Dr Muizzu also stressed the importance of digital connectivity as economic infrastructure, supporting trade, financial services, tourism and creative industries.

He highlighted measures taken by the Maldives to support start-ups and young entrepreneurs, including women-led businesses, as well as the modernised Foreign Investment Act, the planned Trade Acceleration Zone and investments in logistics and floating solar energy.

The President called on UN-OHRLLS to develop the GBN as a central platform connecting promising island enterprises with finance, technology, partners and markets.