Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, delivered a speech today at the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) held in Islamabad, Pakistan.
In his address, Hon. Speaker called for stronger multilateral parliamentary cooperation to advance peace, security, and sustainable development.
The Speaker also expressed sincere appreciation to the Senate and people of Pakistan for their warm hospitality and commended Pakistan’s leadership in hosting the event. He further acknowledged the visionary founding of the ISC in Seoul earlier this year, describing it as a vital platform for unified parliamentary action in response to complex global challenges.
“Peace, security, and development are not separate goals. They are inseparable realities that define our existence,” Hon. Speaker stated, highlighting how global issues such as climate change, misinformation, economic instability, and geopolitical tensions are deeply interconnected.
Referring to the Maldives’ experience as a small island nation, Hon. Speaker underscored that a crisis in one region can quickly affect the rest of the world. He also reaffirmed the Maldives’ strong commitment to multilateralism, good governance, and a rules-based international order founded on fairness and mutual respect.
During his speech, the Speaker also emphasized the longstanding friendship between the Maldives and Pakistan, strengthened through regional and international platforms such as SAARC and the OIC. He noted that parliaments play a crucial role in maintaining such partnerships and in ensuring that development remains just, inclusive, and rooted in respect.
Addressing the ongoing humanitarian crises across the world, Hon. Speaker expressed deep concern over the suffering of women and children and urged parliamentary leaders to act with compassion and moral responsibility. “A safe world cannot be built on fear or oppression; it must be built on hope, justice, and human solidarity,” he stated.
Hon. Speaker also called for stronger parliamentary responses to emerging threats such as terrorism, maritime insecurity, and cyber risks, and reaffirmed the People’s Majlis’ readiness to contribute to the formulation of the Islamabad Declaration, building upon the spirit of the Seoul Declaration to enhance parliamentary diplomacy and legislative cooperation.
The Hon. Speaker concluded his address by reaffirming the Maldives’ commitment to working with Pakistan and all ISC member parliaments to promote stability, justice, and shared prosperity for all nations and peoples.