President Muizzu says UN must be founded on respect

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the United Nations must remain an institution founded on respect. In a message marking the 81st United Nations Day, the President said the credibility of the UN is built on mutual trust and responsibility between nations, which can only be achieved through full respect for international law, adherence to international principles, and the proper implementation of treaties. He noted that increasing regional political and geopolitical tensions, inequality in the enforcement of international laws, and challenges facing countries in keeping pace with global changes are factors that erode that trust. The President highlighted the immense damage being inflicted on humanity, particularly in countries like Palestine, due to such divisions. He also pointed out obstacles faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including unequal access to financial assistance and technology, and unsustainable debt. President Muizzu emphasized that for the Maldives to achieve its goal of becoming a developed nation by 2040, it needs both the freedom to determine its own future and the means to realise its national ambitions. He said the country will work with the international community to ensure respect for peace, establish justice, and safeguard the right of every state to determine its own future.