In a landmark moment of cultural diplomacy, the Maldives has unveiled a beautifully crafted Thun’dukunaa, a traditional hand-woven reed mat, at United Nations Headquarters in New York.
The historic gift, the first Maldivian artifact to be displayed at the UN, was officially presented by Dr Ali Naseer Mohamed, the Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations, during a special ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of Maldivian independence and six decades of the nation’s membership in the global organisation.
The donation was initiated during President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s official visit to the UN in 2024, symbolising the Maldives’ enduring commitment to international cooperation and cultural exchange.
Meticulously woven by a master artisan from the island of Gadhdhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll—renowned for its exquisite mat-weaving tradition—the Thun’du Kunaa stands as a testament to the nation’s rich artistic heritage and skilled craftsmanship. Its intricate patterns reflect not only the aesthetic traditions of the Maldivian atolls but also the resilience and creativity of its people.