Foreign Secretary of Maldives, Ahmed Sareer has noted that democracy in the Maldives has brought social and political developments, and progress in key economic sectors. The Maldivian Foreign Secretary made this statement at the Tenth Bali Democracy Forum held in Jakarta today under the theme, “Does Democracy Deliver?”
In his statement, Foreign Secretary Ahmed Sareer mentioned that democracy has brought political pluralism to the country; facilitated horizontal accountability through the establishment of independent institutions to maintain checks and balances in the three branches of the State. Foreign Secretary Sareer highlighted how democracy has empowered the people to add voice, and participate in upholding the principles of democracy, the rule of law and good governance.
Sharing the development Maldives has achieved during the past few years, Ahmed Sareer stated that the ambitious development programmes initiated by President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has opened up new avenues for economic ventures that are sustainable and environment-friendly; opportunities for youth have expanded; and the spirit of participation in promoting progress flourished. Sareer further reiterated the commitment of the Government of Maldives on strengthening good governance, institution-building, and economic diversification. In terms of social justice, pursuing gender equality and empowering women to become equal partners in practice, socially, economically and politically, has been a priority for the Maldives, he noted.
img:http://s4.psmnews.mv/images/660x400/15127452779318.jpg|Foreign Secretary addressing the 10th Bali Democracy Forum - Photo: Foreign Ministry
Continuing his statement, the Foreign Secretary expressed his concern of the United States’ decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and relocate its Embassy to Jerusalem, as a flagrant disregard of international law, and a decision that runs against the democratic norms of international relations.
In his statement, Sareer thanked the Government of Indonesia for its continued commitment to democracy, and the conversations that Bali Democracy Forum has enabled and put into motion for attending countries, and congratulated the Government and people of Indonesia for their leadership on the subject.