The Maldives has delivered a powerful call for global reform and renewed commitment to justice at the 80th United Nations General Assembly, with Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel urging the world to uphold sovereignty, protect human dignity, and strengthen multilateral cooperation.
Marking the Maldives’ 60th anniversary as a UN member, Foreign Minister reaffirmed the nation’s faith in the international system while warning that its foundations are under threat. He condemned the erosion of international law, the use of force to redraw borders, and the paralysis of institutions meant to safeguard peace.
In his address, the Foreign Minister strongly denounced Israel’s genocide in Gaza, where over 66,000 civilians — half of them women and children — have been killed. He described the complicity of powerful nations arming Israel as “the shame of the century” declaring that no country can remain silent while famine and violence are used as weapons of war.
Foreign Minister stressed that the Maldives stands with Palestine and called for accountability, emphasizing that sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable principles. He also highlighted the urgency of reforming the UN Security Council to ensure representation for small island developing states (SIDS), transparency, and an end to veto-driven paralysis.
Turning to climate and development, the Minister pressed major emitters to honor their responsibilities and called for fair debt restructuring and climate finance for vulnerable nations like the Maldives. He underscored that the “Antigua and Barbuda Agenda” and the upcoming World Social Summit must deliver real solutions for SIDS.
Foreign Minister further showcased President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s “Maldives 2.0” vision — reshaping governance, digitizing services, and building a sustainable economy anchored in youth empowerment, renewable energy, and inclusive growth. He noted that initiatives such as banning tobacco for future generations, expanding mental health services, and investing in maritime and trade hubs are designed to make the Maldives both resilient and globally competitive.
Concluding his address, the Foreign Minister declared that the choice before the world is clear: “Either we rebuild the foundations of law and norms — or reconcile ourselves to a world where might makes right”. He urged nations to restore respect for sovereignty, revitalize multilateralism, and stand with small states, warning that without action, no nation — big or small — will be safe.
