The Government of the Maldives has acknowledged the role played by the Muslim World League (MWL) in cultivating the wisdom of moderate Islam across the world. The remarks were made by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel at a joint press conference held with the Secretary General of MWL Sheikh Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa.
During the press conference, State Minister Khaleel congratulated Sheikh Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa on being conferred the Order of the Dignified Rule of Kalaafaanu by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. The state minister noted it is a recognition of the valuable contributions the MWL secretary general has made in the promotion of moderate Islam and reflects the esteem in which he is held by the Maldivian people.
Speaking further, State Minister Khaleel said the visit of the MWL secretary general to the Maldives is a timely opportunity to further deepen cooperation between the Maldives and MWL in its shared priorities that are anchored in the very essence of Islam, which is peace, tolerance and coexistence. He noted the Maldives recognises and appreciates the league’s role in cultivating the wisdom of moderate Islam all across the globe. He expressed confidence that under the guidance and leadership of Secretary General Al-Issa, the MWL will continue to pursue effective ways to address the issues facing the Islamic Ummah.
The state minister further revealed discussions were held on a wide range of topics, including enhancing cooperation in counter terrorism, counter radicalization and issues related to Islamophobia, empowerment of women and the role of the MWL in addressing these issues. He added the discussions presented the opportunity to further strengthen cooperation between the Maldives and MWL and carry forward efforts to promote the tolerant values of Islam in its true, moderate form.
State Minister Khaleel further revealed discussed were also held on enhancing cooperation in the field of capacity building and further training of religious scholars and imams, and most importantly youth, with the support of the MWL. The state minister said the discussions also focused on the importance of expediting the opening of the King Salman Mosque. He added discussions were also held on the importance of empowering women and ensuring equal participation of women in public life and the elimination of all forms of violence against women.
Furthermore, State Minister Khaleel said views were exchanged on the various challenges facing the Islamic Ummah, including the issues of Palestine and Rohingya Muslims. He added discussions were also held on the possibility of opening a representative office of the MWL in the Maldives.
Concluding his statement, State Minister Khaleel said he looks forward to working closely with the MWL, and reiterated the commitment of the Maldives to supporting the organisation in fulfilling its mission in accordance with the Makkah Charter.