Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called for Small Island Developing States, or SIDS, to be recognised not only for their climate vulnerabilities, but also for their growing potential as hubs of innovation, enterprise and investment.

Speaking at the opening of the SIDS Global Business Network Forum 2026 and Island Investment Forum in the Maldives, President Muizzu said island nations have consistently transformed geographic and economic challenges into opportunities.

He highlighted the role of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in driving SIDS economies, describing them as key sources of practical innovation and solutions.

The President also stressed the importance of digital connectivity, saying it has evolved beyond communications to become critical economic infrastructure supporting trade, financial services, tourism and creative industries.

Highlighting the Maldives’ own initiatives, President Muizzu pointed to targeted financing for start-ups and young entrepreneurs, including support for women-led businesses, as well as reforms to attract foreign investment and planned investments in logistics and floating solar energy.

He also called on the UN Office of the High Representative for SIDS to develop the Global Business Network into a central platform connecting island businesses and ideas with finance, technology, partners and international markets.

The three-day forum is being held in the Maldives from 23 to 25 August, bringing together stakeholders to strengthen business and investment opportunities across SIDS.