The Maldives has called on member states of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) to enhance cooperation with a renewed motivation to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. The statement was made by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Ahmed Khaleel in his address at the ongoing High-Level Commemorative Meeting to mark the 60th Anniversary of the NAM, held in Belgrade, Serbia.
In his statement, State Minister Khaleel noted that despite its diversity, NAM stands tall and united behind its common founding vision and has proven to be a formidable player in shaping world politics since its inception. He added this commemorative meeting is one of the many markers of the strength of the movement.
The state minister underlined the relevance of the Bandung Principles as time-tested and stressed the importance to continue to respect and uphold them as they come under increasing pressure. The state minister reiterated that the Maldives takes great pride in being a member of the movement and will remain firmly committed to continuing to be an active member. He urged the member states to work together, peacefully, while recognising and respecting the differences among the members. He further called the member states to renew its vow to increase cooperation amongst the members and also with others through various multilateral avenues.
While highlighting the impacts of COVID-19, State Minister Khaleel called on the member states to work together with renewed motivation to recover from the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic. He further stated that it is more vital than ever to embrace multilateralism and not retreat to isolationism and NAM must play a central role in this effort.
The NAM comprises of 120 member states, and is one of the largest international organizations after the United Nations. The Maldives became a member of NAM in 1976.