Closing Remarks by Minister of Foreign Affairs His Excellency Moosa Zameer at the Summit of the Future National Side Event: A Vision for an Intelligence-driven Future for the Maldives

Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

 Good Afternoon. 

Allow me to first thank His Excellency President Dr Muizzu for gracing this event and delivering the keynote speech. I also extend my thanks to Mr. Steve Leonard for his insights into the world of digitalization. 

I wish to thank Mr Bradley Bussetto, UN Resident Coordinator Ad. Interim and his team for supporting us as our co-host. 

To the esteemed panel members, thank you for the excellent thought-provoking interventions. To the moderator, for keeping the conversation interesting and reasonably on time. 

Most importantly, I would like to thank all the guests in attendance. This event would not have been successful without your active participation. 

Today, we discussed how important it is to foster economic growth, enhance educational opportunities, and ensure that everyone can participate in the digital economy.

 Under the visionary leadership of President Dr. Muizzu, our mission is simple, direct, and unwavering. To build a connected, efficient, and innovative society where digital advancements elevate the quality of life for every Maldivian. 

This vision goes beyond simply incorporating new technology. It includes ensuring that all citizens can take advantage of the opportunities that digitalization brings. 

Our goal is to ensure that Maldivians are innovators and creators of technology. Not merely consumers of it. 

Excellencies,

This event laid down our vision for an intelligence-driven future for Maldives as we gear up to participate in the Summit of the Future to be held during the forthcoming High-level week of the 79th Session of the UN General Assembly. 

During the Summit of the Future, we will urge nations to champion digital transformation. We will urge nations to build a more equitable, resilient, and connected world for all. And we will urge nations to foster a spirit of innovation and partnership that transcends borders. 

Excellencies, 

With the focus of our vision on the digital horizon, we want to use technology to create a future that is more inclusive and resilient.

 We believe that a digitally educated population is essential to sustaining our growth and maintaining our competitive edge in the global market.

 We are committed to promoting a resilient and cooperative culture that gives entrepreneurs the tools they need to take advantage of new possibilities, overcome obstacles, and support a thriving and long-lasting digital economy.

 Every country faces challenges in the process of such transitions. And the Maldives is no exception.

We are tackling challenges to cybersecurity, digital inclusivity, and upskilling and reskilling the workforce. Our distinguished panelists have highlighted, cooperation between the public and private sectors. They have also noted that role of our international partnerships are essential to addressing these challenges head-on. 

These partnerships are crucial to paving the way for sustainable and inclusive digital growth.

The progress we are making stands as a testament to the power of vision and innovation. It serves as a reminder that even the smallest of us can have significant gains in this digital age.

 Excellencies,

The UN has been a steadfast partner of the Maldives for nearly 59 years. We value and appreciate the support the UN has consistently provided.

 As we inch towards 60 years of cooperation, we look forward to strengthening this partnership and to realise our shared goals and aspirations

I wish to conclude now by expressing my gratitude to all those who helped us with the preparation and conduct. Especially, to the management of Dharmavantha Hospital for graciously hosting this event and for my wonderful co-host and my own team for making this event a success.

 To all the participants of this event; Your contributions have greatly enriched our discussions and provided valuable perspectives. 

We know we need to go further.

I hope this dialogue generates ideas and opportunities to help us move forward in consolidating the digital transformation that we envision for our people.

I thank you.