The Fisheries Ministry held a meeting on Sunday to discuss China's Shanghai Ocean University providing assistance for marine research to promote fisheries in the Maldives.

Shanghai Ocean University Chairman Wang Hongzhou and other senior officials participated on behalf of the university whilst State Minister Dr. Azmath Ahmed and Deputy Minister Ahmed Shafiu participated on behalf of the Maldives.

During yesterday's meeting, Wang Hongzhou expressed interest in providing technical and other assistance for marine research and the fisheries sector in the Maldives, inviting Maldivian fisheries students to pursue degree courses in Shanghai Ocean.

During the talks, Hongzhou suggested conducting exchange programmes to create interest among Maldivian youth in fisheries and marine research. The university would welcome such programmes, he said.

Hongzhou also assured full cooperation from the Shanghai University for China and the Maldives to work together in developing the marine research sector as discussed during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's visit to China.

In addition, Wang Hongzhou said the university would provide assistance for the Fisheries College that the Maldives is trying to establish as well as for capacity building in management and other areas identified by the Maldives Fisheries Ministry.

Hongzhou noted that the university wished to provide assistance for training lecturers for the Fisheries College and for conducting various types of research.

At the meeting, Dr. Azmath shared efforts undertaken by the current government to enhance Maldivian fisheries and noted the need for research to properly utilise ocean resources.

Concluding the meeting, Dr. Azmath said the Maldives also needs Chinese assistance with devising an ocean development plan.

The meeting was concluded with a green signal for signing an MoU between the Fisheries Ministry and Shanghai Ocean University for collaboration in fisheries and marine-related sectors, the Fisheries Ministry said.

Shanghai Ocean University is notable globally in the marine science field. The university works with more than 150 universities across the world.