Foreign Ministry says Nasheed’s office did not officially request UN pass

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has revealed that former President Mohamed Nasheed’s office did not officially submit a request for a pass to enter the United Nations (UN) headquarters in New York.

This clarification comes in response to claims from Nasheed’s office alleging that the ministry had refused to facilitate the necessary arrangements for his participation in meetings held during the UN General Assembly session.

According to the Foreign Ministry, no formal request was received from Nasheed’s office for a UN pass. The ministry also noted that, as a former President of the Maldives, Nasheed continues to be accorded the full protocol and privileges extended to former heads of state. In line with established procedures, the ministry stated it has consistently coordinated with foreign counterparts to facilitate travel arrangements for former presidents when required.

The ministry affirmed its ongoing commitment to providing necessary support for all former presidents of the Maldives in accordance with official protocols and procedures.

In a statement released earlier this week, Nasheed’s office claimed that a request had been made for him to attend UN sessions with credentials identifying him as a former President of the Maldives, bearing the national flag and emblem. The statement also emphasized that it is customary for former heads of state, government, and parliamentary leaders to participate in international forums representing their countries in a formal capacity.