Panel Discussion on Demographic Transition: The Challenges and opportunities for the Maldives - Closing Remarks by His Excellency Ahmed Shiaan Secretary, Multilateral at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Excellencies, Distinguished guests, Students,

As we conclude the very first session of the panel discussion series commemorating the 60^th Anniversary of Maldives membership in the UN, I want to express my profound appreciation to each and every one of you who contributed to today’s exchange.

I take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Mr. Hao Zhang and the UN Country Team, for their partnership in convening this important series of panel discussions. Special thanks to his dedicated team at the RCO for their excellent support in making this session a success.  

I wish to also thank the distinguished panelists for their expertise and insights.

This year, we celebrate six decades of strong and fruitful partnership with the United Nations in building a better world for this generation and the next. We also join the international community in celebrating the 80^th anniversary of the United Nations, honouring their tireless efforts in ensuring peace, justice and equality across the globe.

The UN has been a steadfast partner in the Maldives’ development journey, supporting us in nation-building and climate resilience to healthcare and education. The UN has also played a vital role in helping us navigate the challenges and opportunities of demographic transition, enabling us to make the most of our circumstances to build a better future. 

With this dialogue, we seek to underscore, the continuing relevant of the UN, especially in developing countries like the Maldives. 

We hope to highlight the development trajectory the Maldives has travelled on, since we regained independence, and the support of our partners like the UN, that helped us get to where we are today. 

And finally, we are looking to the future. To enhance awareness, and to also spark curiosity in the work of diplomacy, in international relations, in multilateralism. 

I hope we have delivered on these fronts through the session today. 

Before I conclude, I wish to thank my team at the Multilateral Department for always going above and beyond. 

I hope you continue to join us in the rest of the events lined up in our celebration of the 60^th anniversary of the Maldives joining the United Nations, and the 80^th anniversary of the United Nations

Thank you.