Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef has departed Antigua and Barbuda following the conclusion of the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).
Accompanied by a high-level delegation, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iruthisham Adam, the Vice President’s visit centred on the summit's theme, "Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth."
The summit, which featured an opening ceremony attended by the Head of the Commonwealth, King Charles III, served as a crucial forum for world leaders to address global security, economic, and environmental challenges.
In his address during Executive Session 2, Vice President Latheef advocated for a Commonwealth that empowers member states to thrive through self-reliance and national capacity. He called for enhanced collective action in areas ranging from climate resilience to digital transformation, stressing that shared experiences and practical assistance are vital to overcoming modern global hurdles.
Representing the vision of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, the Vice President reiterated the Maldives' ambitious goal of achieving developed nation status by 2040. He highlighted specific national targets, including ensuring the digital economy accounts for 15 percent of GDP by 2030 and transitioning to 33 percent renewable energy by 2028. The Vice President emphasised that the Maldivian youth remain the primary driving force behind these initiatives, noting that investing in their skills and opportunities is essential for long-term resilience.
The Vice President also warned of the fiscal pressures caused by global supply chain disruptions and economic risks, urging the Commonwealth to play a more active role in supporting national development through resilience-building partnerships. During his visit, he also participated in several sideline sessions, delivering statements that reinforced the Maldives' commitment to sustainable development and international cooperation.