President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has underscored that a country's independence is not solely defined by internal acceptance but must also be recognized and respected by the global community. Delivering a message on the 59th anniversary of the Maldives' membership in the United Nations (UN), President Dr. Muizzu emphasised the nation's successful diplomatic journey and its steadfast commitment to international cooperation.
President Muizzu highlighted the UN plays a vital role in defending and promoting the sovereignty of small nations like the Maldives. As such, the president noted the most important place to defend the independence and sovereignty of a country is the UN, stressing the significance of UN membership in ensuring global recognition and respect for the Maldives' sovereignty.
Reflecting on the Maldives' achievements at the UN, President Muizzu noted the nation has made remarkable progress over the years, moving from poverty to prosperity, while championing critical issues such as climate change. He pointed out that Maldivian diplomats have worked tirelessly to promote the country's interests on the world stage, including holding the presidency of the UN General Assembly last year and serving a third term on the UN Human Rights Council.
"In the past ten months, we have advanced our national interests at an accelerated pace," the President remarked, highlighting the Maldives' leadership in shaping the next 10-year development plan for small island nations. He also revealed the nation's ongoing campaign for a seat on the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), reaffirming that the Maldives’ trajectory remains firmly focused on progress and global engagement.
President Muizzu described the UN as the world's primary forum for resolving disputes and addressing global challenges, emphasising the need for active participation in its debates. "We must raise our voices in such arenas to ensure that the Maldives is a respected and influential nation globally," he said, adding that his top priority in foreign policy is to protect the interests of the Maldivian people.
In closing, President Muizzu assured the people of Maldives that his foreign policy would continue to prioritise the nation's security, freedom, and prosperity. The president pledged to protecting the interests of the people of Maldives in shaping and conducting the foreign policy,