Maldives Ocean Focus: Maldives is boosting ocean science for economic diversification, with Fisheries/Agriculture/Ocean Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam pointing to climate-driven fish-stock shifts and new research and aquaculture value-add plans. Green Funding: President Muizzu announced MVR 7 million annually from the Maldives Green Fund for environmental protection, covering protected areas, wildlife, research, awareness, and school/civil society projects. Coral Conservation: Anantara’s Dr Oriana Migliaccio oversaw the planting of the 10,000th baby coral, highlighting reef restoration tied to guest experiences. Marine Tourism & Training: Marriott Maldives’ apprenticeship programme graduated 40 local trainees across hospitality roles, while resorts marked World Environment Day/World Ocean Day with reef clean-ups, coral planting, and turtle-festival sponsorships. Payments Tech: Nepal’s NPI is now linked to India’s UPI for 24/7 cross-border remittances via VPAs, with clear limits and fees. Digital Commerce Standards: TripWorks achieved OCTO certification, aligning tour/activities connectivity with shared AI-ready API standards. Cyber-Trade Security: Japan is training customs officers abroad, including from Maldives, to better tackle counterfeits in e-commerce.