Maldives calls for a more resilient, responsive Commonwealth at CHOGM

Foreign Minister Irtishaam Adam has called on the Commonwealth to become more resilient and responsive to the needs of its member groups. Speaking at a meeting of Commonwealth foreign ministers held ahead of the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, Minister Irtishaam stressed the importance of the organisation working together with friendship to overcome the various challenges facing the world today. He stated that it is vital for the Commonwealth to evolve into an institution that addresses the needs of both present and emerging groups in order to achieve its interconnected goals. The Minister highlighted the Commonwealth’s role in securing climate change finance to bring economic sustainability and development to developing Small Island Developing States (SIDS). He reiterated the Maldives' longstanding position on reforming the current financial system and finding proper solutions to the vulnerabilities faced by countries. Referring to decision-making processes, the Minister called for ensuring equal opportunity for all member countries in assigning key positions, regardless of their size and capacity. He also reiterated the Maldives’ policy of working together with the Commonwealth and its member countries for the advancement of the Commonwealth family.