Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has said the event of November 3, 1988 showcased the special security threats and vulnerabilities faced by small states.
In his statement on the 31st anniversary of Victory Day, Foreign Minister Shahid said the realisation made Maldives take up the issue at the United Nations, which resulted in multiple resolutions on the security of small states and their vulnerability to external threats. He said efforts from Maldives helped change the discourse on how small states are viewed and discussed in the international security debate.
To counter the emerging external threats of the twenty-first century, the foreign minister noted Maldives has become even more aware of the need to build national resilience, as well as invest in the ties that bind the country to the larger international community.
‘’We shall, with resolute dedication, continue to work towards protecting our sovereignty and independence, through further engagement and enhanced cooperation with our friends and partners,’’ the minister said in his statement.
The minister said Victory Day is a day to value true friends and partnerships. He especially noted the invaluable military support of the Government of India on November 3, 1988, expressing highest gratitude and deepest appreciation to the neighbouring country.