A rule-based international system and fair cooperation are essential to maintaining peace and prosperity, Parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla has stated. The Speaker made the remarks while addressing the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament ongoing in Geneva, Switzerland.
Speaking under the theme, “A World in Turmoil: Parliamentary Cooperation and Multilateralism for Peace, Justice and Prosperity for All”, the Speaker underscored the Maldives’ strong commitment to international cooperation and parliamentary diplomacy. He highlighted major global challenges, from the events in Gaza and Ukraine to climate change and rising inequality, noting that small and vulnerable nations like the Maldives are often the first to feel their impact. He stressed the need for a rules-based international system and nations working together fairly to maintain peace and prosperity.
The Speaker also spoke on the Maldives’ Climate Emergency Act and the country’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2030. He called for increased international assistance and support to assist vulnerable countries.
Speaker Abdul Raheem also highlighted the importance of parliamentary diplomacy, noting that the Maldives Parliament currently has over 25 Parliamentary Friendship Groups. He stated that the Maldives Parliament continues to work closely with international organisations such as the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).
Speaking on the inhumane atrocities being committed in Gaza, the Speaker called on legislatures around the world to stand united and take immediate action.
Concluding his speech, the Speaker urged parliaments worldwide to work closely in promoting peace, justice and prosperity, and to work closely with the United Nations to ensure that the voices of the people are represented in international decision-making processes.