Maldives took the security issues faced by small states to UN, following the 1988 attack: FM

Maldives helped changed the discourse on how small States "are viewed and discussed in the international security debate", following the 1988 coup attempt, says Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid.

The minister said this in his message to mark the 31st anniversary of Victory Day, where he highlighted that the fateful day “showcased the special security threats and vulnerabilities faced by small States.”

He further said that Maldives efforts in this regard, “helped change the discourse on how small States are viewed and discussed in the international security debate.”

Foreign Minister Shahid further stated that small states “have become even more aware of the need to build our national resilience” and “to invest in the ties that bind [the nations’] to the larger international community”, to counter emerging external threats of the 21st century.

The foreign minister also highlighted the assistance provided by India during the attack, noting that its “invaluable” support remains “etched in [Maldivians’] hearts.”

He added that the “gratitude and deepest appreciation shall never diminish.”

Furthermore, Shahid honoured those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation, in his message.

Noting that the brave martyrs of the Maldives National Defence Force and civilians “are remembered with abundant love,” the minister expressed gratitude “that such heroic people were amongst us.”