President His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the pathway needed for national development can be achieved by acquiring respect on the global stage. Emphasising the crucial role of making our voice resonate in international forums, the President made these remarks in a video message publicised to celebrate the 59th anniversary of the Maldives’ membership at the United Nations.

In his video message, the President underscored the importance of voicing out in the international arena and becoming a state that respects and is respected in the international community.

The President revealed that his most prominent role in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) would be to present his vision for the progress of the Maldives. He remarked that his utmost focus at the United Nations would be to convey his vision for the Maldives, voicing the desires and feelings of the Maldivian people to the international community.

President His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu called on the international community to strengthen the connection between debt relief and climate finance, aiming to alleviate the debt challenges faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Speaking as Co-Chair of the Strategic Advisory Group for the SIDS Debt Sustainability Support Service, at the side event titled ‘Building Resilient Futures: The Global SIDS Debt Sustainability Support Service’, he underscored the vulnerability of SIDS and their ongoing struggles with debt sustainability. He advocated for a closer integration of debt relief and climate finance, recommending that the SIDS Debt Sustainability Support Service (DSSS) prioritise securing more favourable debt relief conditions, including lower interest rates and extended repayment terms.

President Dr Muizzu also proposed reallocating Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) through international financial institutions to enhance the financial stability of SIDS and reduce their exposure to external shocks. He emphasised the need for partnerships with Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs) and International Financial Institutions (IFIs) to unlock investments and create new economic opportunities.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has emphasised the most beneficial way for the Maldives is to work with countries around the world. He made the remarks speaking to media prior to his departure to New York to participate in the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This marks his first appearance at the UNGA as president and coincides with the 59th anniversary of the Maldives joining the United Nations.

Chief Spokesperson at the President's Office, Heena Waleed, has announced that President His Excellency Dr. Mohamed Muizzu will attend the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79). She made these remarks during a press conference held on Thursday at the President's Office.

This visit marks President Muizzu's inaugural official trip to the United Nations General Assembly. The President will deliver remarks at the UN General Assembly and participate in a special open debate at the UN Security Council.

Speaking at the press conference, Heena revealed that this will be the first time a Maldivian President participates in a debate at the UN Security Council.