A heartfelt tribute was paid to six decades of partnership between the Maldives and the United Nations at a ceremony commemorating United Nations Day on Thursday. The event not only marked the 80th anniversary of the UN’s founding but also highlighted the Maldives’ 60-year journey as a proud member since joining the international body in 1965.
Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, speaking at the event, emphasized the Maldives’ enduring commitment to the core values of the UN, peace, security, sustainable development, and human rights. He acknowledged the UN’s crucial role in the Maldives’ national development, stating that the country’s progress over the past six decades has been supported in many ways through its partnership with the global organization.
Despite its small size and geographical dispersion, the Maldives has consistently asserted its voice on global issues, especially those concerning climate change and sustainable development. Minister Khaleel reiterated that joining the UN was a bold and visionary step for the island nation, which has since evolved into a dynamic advocate for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
A testament to the Maldives’ growing influence in international affairs, the country currently serves as Vice-President of both the United Nations General Assembly and the United Nations Human Rights Council. The Minister noted these positions of responsibility as symbols of international recognition of the Maldives’ commitment to multilateralism and principled diplomacy.
Among the nation’s key milestones with the UN was its graduation in 2011 from the UN’s list of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to Developing Country status—the third nation globally to achieve this. The transition highlighted the Maldives’ development progress, especially in areas such as health, education, infrastructure, and economic diversification, driven by partnerships and technical support facilitated through UN agencies.
At the ceremony, UN Resident Coordinator for the Maldives, Mr. Hao Zhang, praised the country for its active and consistent engagement with the UN system. He underscored that the Maldives has stood out among member states for its advocacy and commitment, and reaffirmed the UN’s readiness to continue working hand-in-hand with the Maldives to address evolving national priorities and global challenges.
The celebration included a dedicated photo exhibition that chronicled six decades of collaboration between the Maldives and the UN, documenting major achievements and cooperative programs that have shaped the country’s development narrative. The exhibition attracted wide attention from government dignitaries, civil society leaders, and international partners who gathered to reflect on the progress made and future aspirations.
The event was attended by senior government officials, representatives from partner organizations, and individuals who have contributed to shaping the Maldives’ development trajectory. It served not only as a commemoration of the past but also as a reaffirmation of the Maldives’ future role in the international community—a nation small in geography, yet strong in purpose and voice.
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