President Muizzu: UN attendance importance given country’s current situation

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has affirmed that his visit to New York to participate in the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79) will be fruitful and produce productive results. 

The President departed for New York on Friday evening.

He spoke to reporters at Velana International Airport ahead of departure during which he underscored that Maldives will benefit more from interacting with the international community. He emphasized how crucial it is for the Maldives to stay in touch with international partners for potential benefits and maintain a strong global presence, especially at the United Nations, given the country's current situation.

President Muizzu said during his visit, he will speak on issues of importance to the Maldives at the UN General Assembly and other significant engagements. He highlighted the need to address issues crucial to the progress of the Maldives, primarily those related to the environment, technology, and developmental aspects, for which he intends to seek assistance during the visit.

The President affirmed that the visit would be fruitful and produce productive results. 

A high-level delegation is accompanying the President on this visit.

President Muizzu is scheduled to deliver his address to the General Assembly on Tuesday. He will also participate in the Summit of the Future, co-chair key interactive dialogues, and speak at several side events.

The President will also engage in a series of bilateral and multilateral discussions with various state and government leaders on the sideline of these events.

The President’s Office noted that the visit holds significant importance as it will mark President Muizzu's first appearance at the UN General Assembly. The visit also coincides with the 59th anniversary of the Maldives' membership in the United Nations.

The President’s participation in UNGA 79 was announced by the Chief Spokesperson of the President’s Office Heena Waleed on Thursday. She detailed that President Muizzu will participate in a special open debate at the UN Security Council, which will be the first time a Maldivian President participates in a debate at the UN Security Council.

President Muizzu is set to conclude the visit and return to Maldives on Sunday, September 29th.