Malé, 3 February 2022 (TDI): Today, during the event of the People’s Majlis, the President of the Republic of Maldives, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, delivered an address. This was aimed at highlighting the nation’s significant advances in international relations.
He stated that it was due to international acceptance of Maldives’ foreign policy, that it was awarded the presidency of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
BACKGROUND OF MALDIVES’ FOREIGN POLICY
The foreign policy of the Maldives lies on the firm foundation that territorial integrity must be upheld, human rights and sovereignty must be protected. Furthermore, democracy should be implemented, and practical steps should continually be taken to mitigate climate change and its afflictions.
The Maldivian Government prioritizes safeguarding the freedom, independence and sovereignty of the country. It intends to develop police presence on all inhabited islands. This plan is currently in the works.
THE PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS
During his presidential speech, Solih expressed that it was an honour for the entire nation that the UNGA had voted in favour of electing Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid for the esteemed role of President of the 76th session.
The Maldivian President further commented that it was essential to strengthen alliances in order to establish peace and enable the Maldives to prosper. In relation to this, he stated, there is no point in marginalizing in an increasingly globalized world.
Moreover, Solih also affirmed that the Maldives was committed to promoting peace and harmony in the Indian Ocean region. Ensuring that citizens of Maldives felt protected and secure, was of great significance. He also mentioned that the Maldives’ armed forces constituted highly skilled combats who had received training from other nations.
The President further stated that the plan to establish police presence on each island was already in motion. He specifically highlighted that in Huvadhu Atoll, Ari Atoll and in some other cities, neighbouring policing had been successfully implemented. The next atolls on the list were Kaafu Atoll and Thaa atoll.
He expressed appreciation to the Maldives Police Service, Customs Service, as well as other related institutions playing a part in eliminating drug abuse and the narcotics trade during the past three years.
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