Discussions have been held on ways to improve and diversify the economy of Maldives.

The discussions were held between President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and Chairperson Aruni Goonetilleke and CEO Noel Gregor Paterson-Jones of the Development Bank of Maldives.

The Chairperson and CEO of the Development Bank paid a courtesy call on the president on Monday.

The meeting saw productive discussions on seeking ways through which the country’s crashing economy can be improved.

Discussions also revolved around the Development Bank’s CEO and Chairperson’s extensive knowledge and experience in the field.

With more than 25 years of experience in global financial markets, the Development Bank’s Chairperson is a financial services expert who specializes in business origination, governance, credit assessment, and risk management in emerging markets and holds a Master of Laws (LL.M) from Harvard University. Her background includes transformational roles in corporate banking, credit, risk management as well as internal audit across international and Sri Lankan banks.

Having led the investment teams and functions in the establishment of the National Infrastructure Fund, the Development Bank’s CEO has been a pivotal figure in green investments. Having attained a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) from Oxford University, U.K, he also chairs the Electric Vehicle Africa Fund and manages clean energy projects in Southeast Asia, indicating his expertise in green finance and infrastructure development.

In alignment with the president’s pledge, the Development Bank of the Maldives was established on 16 May 2024.