Must strengthen commitment to UN principles to revive true spirit of multilateralism: FM Shahid

Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has called on the international community to join hands in commitment to the principles of the United Nations in order to revive the true spirit of multilateralism.

In his pre-recorded address to the General Debate of the 75th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the minister shed light on the government of Maldives’ commitment to stand ready to do its part just as the island nation did, 55 years ago.

Highlighting the need to join hands with determination to uphold peace, preserve fundamental human rights, human dignity and the worth of every person and nation, FM Shahid noted that the international community must commit to practice tolerance, promote dialogue over violence and employ global cooperation for the advancement of all.

Recalling the first ever words spoken by the Permanent Representative of Maldives to the UN, Ahmed Hilmy Didi who spoke at the chamber 55 years ago when Maldives declared its firm conviction that “the UN is the chief architect” of peace.

FM Shahid asserted that the conviction remains “stronger than ever”, 55 years later.

Maldives responded to the health impacts of Covid-19, which caused the country’s tourism industry to come to a complete standstill for over three months, decline in revenues and incline in debts, by declaring a state of public health emergency. In his speech the minister also shed light on some of the important measures that followed.

Speaking on the lessons learnt from the pandemic, FM Shahid stated that not every country has been affected in equal measure, as such, for countries such as Maldives where tourism contributes 75 percent of GDP, “the loss has been immeasurable”.

FM Shahid thanked partners who have provided generous financial, material and technical support during the crisis.

Highlighting that ensuring human rights is fundamental to a progressive society and sustainable development, FM Shahid noted that promotion and protection of human rights is a cornerstone of the president’s administration since inception.

Maldives firmly believes that a “rights-based approach” prioritizes the empowerment of all segments f the society especially women and youth and for the first time, Maldives is working on a draft youth bill that will ensure the rights of youth as well as their participation in decision-making, said FM Shahid.

Further, the minister shed light on the most complex and challenging global issue of our time; terrorism, which requires cooperation to address the root causes.

FM Shahid went on to state that UN still represents “the best hope for humanity and cooperation, the best platform for dialogue, the best check against the rising tide of ultra-nationalism, and xenophobia”, although the international community agrees that UN requires reform.