A single act of terrorism could cripple the Maldivian tourism industry, tourism minister Moosa Zameer warned Tuesday stressing the importance of being adequately prepared for such a possibility.
The Minister made the statement during the ceremony held to start the Maldives Counter Terrorism Workshop, a joint effort of the Maldives Police Service and the English Metropolitan Police.
Zameer noted that that this was a vulnerable time for the world, and that the threat of terrorism seemed to grow more imminent in South Asian countries.
"We have to be wary, because Maldives is dependant on tourism and a single act of terrorism could destroy it all," the Minister said.
The Minister noted that it was important for Maldives to ensure the protection of tourists visiting the country. He advised the finding of threats to Maldivian security and to prepare counter measures for the threats before they strike.
The Minister also noted the history of camaraderie between Maldives and Britain, and thanked the UK for the invaluable support they provided the Maldives in the fight against terrorism. He also called for both countries to continue down this road and to increase the amount of support they provide each other in cases of terrorism.
The workshop containing 120 to 140 participants will see those working in the Maldivian security field convene and discuss about the difficulties in providing security for resorts, and attempt to find measures to increase security.
