Pres. Muizzu: Every dollar provided by investors must achieve its intended purpose

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that every dollar entrusted to the state by citizens, as well as every dollar provided by development partners, must be used for its intended purpose.

The President made the remarks while addressing the closing session of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) Supreme Audit Institutions (SAIs) Symposium and the opening ceremony of the INTOSAI Development Initiative (IDI) Global Summit.

In his remarks, President Muizzu called for continued investment in integrity, accountability, transparency, innovation and meaningful partnerships, saying these principles are essential to ensuring that future generations inherit more resilient states, stronger democracies, healthier economies and more hopeful societies.

He stressed that every dollar entrusted by citizens and every dollar contributed by development partners must deliver its intended outcome. According to the President, accountability is not merely an administrative obligation but a strategic national asset and a key driver of national progress.

Highlighting the unique challenges faced by Small Island Developing States, President Muizzu said many countries are required to balance long-term investment with debt management, respond to emergencies while maintaining economic stability, and protect vulnerable communities without compromising economic growth.

He also noted that despite ongoing global economic uncertainty and external pressures, the Maldives has remained committed to meeting its financial obligations while continuing to invest in the country's future.

Speaking on the future of governance, the President said digital transformation presents Small Island Developing States with an unprecedented opportunity to overcome structural challenges associated with geography, distance and limited capacity. Referring to the Maldives 2.0 initiative, he said the vision reflects the government's commitment to building a modern, citizen-centred digital state, adding that technology is not only an innovation agenda but also a governance, development and resilience agenda for SIDS.

"We believe that technology encompasses more than just the digitization of government processes; it is a catalyst for fundamental transformation in the system of governance. Digital tools can enhance transparency, while data-driven insights can lead to more informed decision-making. Through Artificial Intelligence, public services can be optimized, and the development of digital infrastructure can strengthen the trust between the government and its citizens,” he said.

During the ceremony, President Muizzu also launched the Auditor General's Office Strategic Plan 2026–2029.

The symposium, held in Ukulhas, Alifu Alifu Atoll—an island recognised for its commitment to environmental sustainability—brought together Supreme Audit Institutions from Small Island Developing States to exchange knowledge and strengthen institutional capacity in support of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals.