Foreign MInsitry reported that Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon has withdrawn her acceptance of an invitation to participate in a ‘side event’ organised by Amnesty International and due to take place on 17 September at the Human Rights Council.
A statement released by the Ministry stated that the acceptance was withdrawn as a result of the proposed panel make-up and the likely ramifications as a result. The statement added that the invitation was initially accepted on the basis that it would provide an opportunity for relevant issues to be aired and discussed.
It also noted that the Government supported open and fair debate and dialogue and welcomed the opportunity to participate in events where this is possible. However, given the other proposed participants and the recent comments made by opposition party members and their supporters, the statement also noted that there was significant potential for the event to become politicized.
Foreign Ministry added that such side events at the Human Rights Council served a useful purpose and the Government supported such events without question. However, the statement stated that it would be inappropriate for a member of the Government to take part in such an event when there is a clear pre-conceived agenda to be advanced by other panel members who would see such an event as opportunity for political posturing rather than engagement.