Speaking at a reception organized by the Governor of Shandong for participants of the Global Ocean Development Forum, Deputy Speaker of Parliament Ahmed Nazim, MP, called for global cooperation on marine conservation. The reception brought together leaders to address the vital issues surrounding ocean health and sustainable development.

Hon. Nazim praised China’s efforts in marine conservation, especially Shandong province’s clean energy and sustainability initiatives. “Shandong’s 31 marine ecological preservation projects and its clean energy bases set an example for countries like the Maldives,” he said.

He also emphasized the shared connection between the Maldives and China, adding, “Our nations, though separated by distance, share a profound connection to the ocean.” He highlighted Shandong’s rural development model, which combines traditional knowledge with modern innovation, as particularly relevant for the Maldives.

The Deputy Speaker concluded by stressing the importance of the 2025 UN Ocean Conference, calling it a key milestone for global collaboration on ocean sustainability. “We must continue building on these successes together,” he urged.