Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has reaffirmed the commitment of the Maldives towards the principles and values of the United Nations (UN) charter. He made the remarks in his message on the occasion of UN Day.
In his message, Minister Shahid said as the world celebrates the 76th anniversary of the UN, the Maldives reaffirms its trust in multilateralism and diplomacy, while celebrating the achievements of the Maldives in the UN. He said the Maldives moves forward together with all member states, by demonstrating leadership and commitment to upholding the spirit of multilateralism, as it is key to addressing global challenges, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, terrorism and extremism, among others.
The foreign minister further stated with the hope of a better future for all, the Maldives’ commitment to the UN remains steadfast, and will continue to promote human rights, democracy, justice and equality for all nations alike, big or small, rich or poor. He added the deepening of inequalities among vulnerable groups within the society as a result of the devastating impacts of COVID-19 is undeniable.
Further, Minister Shahid noted the Maldives joined the UN in 1965, one of the first small states to join the organization, and a least developed country at the time. However, the minister said the Maldives has been an active member of the UN since then and the trust placed by the international community in the Maldives is evident by the election of the Maldives’ candidate to the 76th session of the UN General Assembly. He added as the candidate of the Maldives, it is a great honour and privilege for him to serve as the current President of the UN General Assembly. He assured all member states that this is a presidency of hope for people, the planet and prosperity, where no one is left behind.
Concluding his message, the foreign minister called on all member states of the UN to work together to achieve the sustainable development goals and to reach the target set forth in the Paris Agreement, to provide a better future for generations to come.