Foreign Minister Dunya Maumoon has sent a message of congratulations to the Secretary-General designate of the Commonwealth, Baroness Patricia Scotland of Asthal PC QC.
The message reads as follows:
It gives me great pleasure to offer my warmest congratulations to you on your election as the Secretary-General designate of the Commonwealth.
On behalf of the people and Government of Maldives I would like to convey our very best wishes for your success as you prepare to take up the responsibilities and challenges of your high office.
I believe that your appointment is a well-deserved recognition of the contribution small states like Dominica bring to the Commonwealth and is also testimony to the strong personal commitment you have to the organisation.
The Government of Maldives looks forward to strengthening the already strong ties we have with the Commonwealth and I am confident that you will do your utmost to ensure that the voices of Small Island Developing States like the Maldives will be recognised within the Commonwealth and will bring the many issues we face to the forefront of the Commonwealth agenda.
I also congratulate you as the first woman to take up the post of Secretary General. This is indeed a wonderful landmark for women globally.
The Government of Maldives looks forward to working with you and the Commonwealth family in the hope of ensuring the long term future of such an important organisation.