Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has stated Maldives is pursuing a policy of re-engagement to reclaim its place in the global arena after a long period of absence and will seek to proactively cooperate on shared interests and concerns in the multilateral arena. The foreign minister made the remarks while delivering a statement at the ongoing 18th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) held in Baku, Azerbaijan. He is representing Maldives at the summit, on behalf of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
In his statement, Minister Shahid outlined the direction Maldives have been pursuing since the new administration assumed power last November. The minister explained Maldives is looking to re-engage with the international community, especially with the members of NAM, and will seek to proactively cooperate on shared interests and concerns in the multilateral arena.
Furthermore, the foreign minister also stated it is important for NAM to adapt to new and non-traditional challenges in the world, such as climate change and terrorism. He said the value of international cooperation amongst member states of NAM could only be derived from the recognition of these challenges, and the application of the collective political will to address them comprehensively.
On climate change, Foreign Minister Shahid urged the international community to come together to address the challenges and consequences rising from the changing climate. Shahid mentioned climate change is already having a devastating effect on the world's natural resources such as water, food security and health. He said Maldives will always lead from the front, in bringing to the world's attention to the impact of climate change, and in urging countries to take further action.
On the issue of Palestine, Foreign Minister Shahid outlined the well-known position of Maldives on the Question of Palestine, and reiterated unwavering support for the creation of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine.
NAM comprises of 120 member states, and is one of the largest international organisations after the United Nations. Maldives became a member of NAM in 1976.