Maldives and US strengthen ties with focus on clean energy cooperation

Tourism and Environment Minister Thoriq Ibrahim met with US Ambassador to the Maldives Hugo Yon on Friday for key discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in the environmental sector, especially clean energy development. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Environment in Malé.

Central to the talks was a shared interest in encouraging foreign investment in renewable energy, with a strong focus on solar power. Both sides discussed practical steps to speed up clean energy initiatives that can support the Maldives’ transition toward sustainable energy solutions.

Minister Thoriq and Ambassador Yon also explored the possibility of US support to help the Maldives address its environmental challenges, particularly those linked to energy transformation and climate resilience. Officials from the ministry described the meeting as a meaningful step toward deepening cooperation and creating joint responses to climate-related vulnerabilities faced by island nations.

This dialogue comes as the government under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu continues to push forward a broad environmental agenda. One major initiative is the ‘Solar City’ programme, recently announced as the country’s first Special Economic Zone project. Unveiled during President Muizzu’s state visit to Singapore, the project is now underway, supported by contracts to develop a 100-megawatt floating solar photovoltaic system.
The meeting reflected both countries’ commitment to advancing clean energy and building a more climate-resilient future.