Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has stated the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) was a historic session that brought historic changes. He made the remarks in his farewell address delivered following the end of his term as the President of the UNGA.
In his farewell speech, Minister Shahid said he brought the Presidency of hope to the United Nations (UN) on behalf of the people of the Maldives. The minister noted that many important historical decisions were taken during his presidency, in efforts to benefit the world. He expressed women have been given equal opportunities during his tenure adding that 50% of the employees in his office are women. In this context, he called for the appointment of a woman to the Presidency of the UNGA.
Furthermore, Minister Shahid noted a Maldivian presiding over the UNGA is the result of the strong foreign policy of President Solih. He added it is proof that the Maldives have earned the respect and trust of the international community.
The UNGA elected Shahid as the President of the 76th session on June 7, 2021, with an overwhelming three-fourths majority with 143 votes out of 191 votes cast. He commenced his one-year term in September 2021. It was the first time the Maldives has run for the Presidency of the UNGA.