Maldives Seeks to Strengthen Ties with AIIB, Says Finance Minister Zameer

Maldives' Minister of Finance and Planning, Moosa Zameer, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to enhancing its partnership with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), expressing confidence in the bank’s growing role in global development.

Addressing the Business Roundtable titled “Building on a Decade of Impact” during AIIB’s 10th Annual Meeting held in Beijing, Minister Zameer spoke on the evolution of the Bank over the past decade, noting that AIIB has become a key player in the global financial architecture. He highlighted its significant membership base, now representing over 81% of the global population and 65% of the world’s GDP, and credited the Bank’s success to its strong foundation in financial discipline, strategic cooperation, and a mission-driven focus.

Zameer emphasized the growing importance of infrastructure investment in what he described as the "Asian Century," pointing to Asia’s rising economic influence and the need for forward-looking financial institutions. He praised AIIB’s role in facilitating sustainable development, particularly amid rising global uncertainties, trade shifts, and protectionist tendencies.

Photo Credit: AIIB

He cited AIIB’s US$20 billion COVID-19 Crisis Recovery Facility as a timely and effective example of multilateral support, adding that small island developing states like the Maldives benefit significantly from such initiatives, especially in the face of climate vulnerabilities.

The Minister further noted the Maldives' goal of generating 33% of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2028, stressing the need for sustainable infrastructure. He acknowledged AIIB’s US$40 million contribution to the Maldives’ Waste-to-Energy Project, part of a broader US$140 million investment, as a crucial step toward cleaner energy and responsible development.

With AIIB having invested over US$60 billion across 300+ projects globally, Minister Zameer said the Maldives is proud to be among the countries supported by the Bank. He encouraged expanding cooperation—not just through financing—but also through early-stage technical support and planning, which would enable more impactful project outcomes for member nations.

Minister Zameer concluded by reaffirming the Maldives’ long-term commitment to AIIB, describing the partnership as one that continues to generate shared benefits, deepen engagement, and support national development priorities.