The Maldives has made a strong appeal for worldwide reform and renewed dedication to justice during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, with Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel encouraging the global community to maintain sovereignty, safeguard human dignity, and enhance multilateral collaboration.

On the occasion of the Maldives’ 60th year as a UN member, the Foreign Minister reiterated the country’s trust in the international system, while cautioning that its foundations are at risk. He denounced the decline of international law, the application of force to alter borders, and the inaction of bodies designed to ensure peace.

In his speech, the Foreign Minister fervently condemned Israel's genocide in Gaza, where more than 66,000 civilians — including many women and children — have lost their lives. He labeled the involvement of powerful nations in supplying arms to Israel as “the shame of the century,” stating that no nation can stay silent while famine and violence serve as instruments of war.

The Foreign Minister emphasized that the Maldives supports Palestine and urged for accountability, highlighting that sovereignty and territorial integrity are essential principles that cannot be compromised. He underscored the immediate need to reform the UN Security Council to guarantee representation for small island developing states (SIDS), promote transparency, and eliminate veto-induced stagnation.

Focusing on climate and development, the Minister urged significant polluters to fulfill their obligations and advocated for equitable debt restructuring and climate financing for at-risk countries such as the Maldives. He emphasized that the "Antigua and Barbuda Agenda" and the forthcoming World Social Summit must provide genuine solutions for SIDS.

The Foreign Minister emphasized President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s “Maldives 2.0” vision — transforming governance, digitizing services, and creating a sustainable economy focused on youth empowerment, renewable energy, and inclusive growth. He pointed out that measures like prohibiting tobacco for future generations, enhancing mental health services, and investing in maritime and trade centers aim to make the Maldives both resilient and competitive on a global scale.

In concluding his speech, the Foreign Minister stated that the option facing the globe is evident: “We either restore the pillars of law and standards — or accept a world where power dictates justice.” He called on countries to reaffirm respect for sovereignty, rejuvenate multilateralism, and support smaller nations, cautioning that inaction will leave all nations — large or small — vulnerable.