Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel’s successor, Foreign Minister Iruthishaam Adam, has reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to deepening its engagement with the Commonwealth, highlighting the importance of expanding cooperation on issues of shared interest.
The assurance was given during a meeting with Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey at Marlborough House in London, the headquarters of the 56-member organization.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussions focused on strengthening collaboration between the Maldives and the Commonwealth, particularly in areas that are important to both sides.
During the meeting, Minister Iruthishaam emphasized the Maldives’ intention to continue building on its relationship with the organization and to work closely with fellow member states on key international and development priorities.
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, in turn, praised the Maldives’ active role within the organization, particularly its advocacy on issues affecting Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Botchwey noted that the Maldives has become a strong voice within the Commonwealth on matters such as climate vulnerability, sustainable development and the unique challenges faced by small island nations.
The meeting comes as the Maldives continues to strengthen its international partnerships and expand its engagement in multilateral forums. Successive governments have used platforms such as the Commonwealth to advocate for climate action, ocean protection and development support for island states.
The Maldives rejoined the Commonwealth in 2020 after previously withdrawing from the organization in 2016. Since its return, the country has sought to play a more active role in Commonwealth initiatives while benefiting from cooperation programs in governance, education, youth development and sustainable development.
Officials said the latest discussions reflect the shared commitment of both sides to further enhance cooperation and maintain close engagement on issues of mutual concern.
