Maldives has called for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to have a more meaningful role in decisions shaping their future, as the country marks 61 years of membership of the United Nations.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam said the Maldives would continue advocating for the rights and interests of SIDS through the UN, stressing that island states should take the lead in shaping their own development.
She said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had called on SIDS to be “in the driving seat”, with the international community supporting rather than prescribing their development paths.
Foreign Minister said the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for SIDS provides a framework for putting this vision into practice, with implementation now a key priority.
She also highlighted climate change as a defining challenge for SIDS, including the Maldives, saying it threatens the country’s culture, livelihoods and way of life.
The Foreign Minister called for adequate, predictable and concessional climate finance to reach SIDS, as well as the implementation of commitments under the Loss and Damage Fund.
She also urged reforms to the international financial system to provide developing countries with fairer and more accessible financing to strengthen climate resilience and address debt sustainability.
Minister Iruthisham called for the swift implementation of the outcomes of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development and the Sevilla Commitment, saying these should result in tangible reforms rather than declarations alone.
The Maldives joined the United Nations on 21 September 1965, and the foreign minister described UN membership as a cornerstone of the country's foreign policy.
She said the Maldives had consistently used multilateralism to advance the interests of SIDS, citing its role in the Alliance of Small Island States and efforts towards the international recognition of the right to a clean, healthy and sustainable environment.
Minister Iruthisham reaffirmed the Maldives' commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and multilateralism, saying the country would continue to pursue a foreign policy centred on safeguarding its sovereignty and advancing the interests of its people.
She said the Maldives would remain a constructive voice at the UN in support of justice, human rights and greater resilience to climate change.