It is a great source of pride to be counted among the Commonwealth family once again, says President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.
In a message following the commemoration of this year’s Commonwealth Day, the president stated that this year, the day is particularly special for the Maldives owing to the fact that the country rejoined the commonwealth a few weeks back after a four-year hiatus.
He added that Maldives requires strength to address the global challenges of our times and that the nation remains resolute to work collectively to further the Commonwealth’s role as “a force for good” in the world.
Highlighting that the organization brings together people from all parts of the world from different social, political and economic backgrounds to interact on a wide range of global issues, Solih said that they are linked by shared values and common goals.
The country has been in great advantage from working alongside the Commonwealth family in the past, said Solih, who expressed his confidence that the shared bonds will “drive our priorities forward” in the future as well.
Further, the president’s message reads that the Commonwealth’s efforts in promoting democracy, protecting the environment, enhancing trade, promoting gender equality, empowering young generations through education, sports and health as well as supporting civil society have proven to be invaluable.
In addition, the organization has acted as a voice for small states, said Solih.
The president highlighted that the country is looking forward to engage with the organization at “all levels” on essential concerns.
The Maldives was proud to host the inaugural meeting of Commonwealth Youth Ministers in 1992. The Commonwealth also provided valuable and timely humanitarian assistance following the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. We have many Commonwealth scholarship alumni, and we recognise the role the Commonwealth has played in building our institutional capacity through numerous training and capacity building programmes.”President Solih
Moreover, the president expressed hope that Maldives will be able to deliver a common, prosperous future for all Commonwealth members through innovative, transformative actions and greater connectivity.
On 1 February 2020, Maldives rejoined the Commonwealth, this is described as a symbol of the incumbent administration’s commitment to engage with the international community and deliver its pledges to the people “in good faith”.
