Expanding the role of women in national development and decision-making is a vital investment in a nation’s future, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Iruthisham Adam has said.
The Foreign Minister made these remarks while addressing a special event jointly organised by the Maldives National University (MNU) and the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Maldives to mark UAE Women’s Day.
Speaking at the event held at MNU, Minister Iruthisham noted that this year’s theme reflects not only the advancement of women but also the progress of society as a whole. In her address, she highlighted the transformative role women play in the development of the UAE, pointing out that women occupy more than 55 percent of senior positions, account for 70 percent of jobs in the private sector, and make up 98 percent of it in skilled roles. Marking 50 years since the Maldives became a member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Minister expressed pride in and recognition of the progress achieved by women across Islamic nations.
Turning her focus to domestic progress, Minister Iruthisham highlighted the strides made by the Maldives in advancing gender equality, as well as the ongoing efforts of the current administration. She emphasised that empowering women is an essential element in building a strong, inclusive, and prosperous nation.
Illustrating this progress, the Minister noted that 91 women are currently working in the Maldivian foreign service, six of whom serve as Ambassadors. She emphasised that women's roles have expanded significantly across various economic sectors, beginning with their distinction in education.
"The voices, talents, determination, and resilience of women continue to shape our country's progress," the Minister said.
She added that expanding women's roles in decision-making is not merely a step toward equality, but a powerful investment in the future of the Maldives.
To sustain this momentum, the Minister stressed the need to build systems that provide equal opportunities for every woman and girl to learn, lead, and succeed. She also urged the students in attendance to believe in their own potential and work hard toward achieving their goals.
Minister Iruthisham also expressed hope for the further expansion and strengthening of bilateral relations between the Maldives and the UAE. She extended her gratitude to the UAE and its leadership for their ongoing support toward development projects and social initiatives that enhance the livelihoods of the Maldivian people.
UAE Women's Day is celebrated annually on 28 August to recognise the achievements and significant contributions of UAE women to their country's development. The day was first celebrated in 2015 on the initiative of Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, wife of the UAE's first president, who is widely known as the "Mother of the Nation."