PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, MP, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, delivered an address today at the General Debate of the 2nd Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference, held in Phnom Penh, Cambodia.
Speaking on the General Debate theme, “Solidarity for Peace and Shared Prosperity: Strengthening International Law and Resolving Conflicts Peacefully,” Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, MP, Speaker of the People’s Majlis, called for stronger parliamentary diplomacy, international law, dialogue, and collective action to advance peace and shared prosperity.
Reflecting on Cambodia’s journey from conflict to peace, Speaker Abdul Raheem said the country’s experience demonstrates that even deep divisions can be overcome through leadership, determination, reconciliation, and a sustained commitment to peace.
Hon. Speaker stressed that the United Nations Charter and international law remain essential foundations for international peace and security, particularly for small island states such as the Maldives, where these principles are vital safeguards for sovereignty, security, and the future.
Highlighting the role of parliaments in advancing peace, Speaker Abdul Raheem emphasized that parliamentary diplomacy provides an important platform to build bridges, promote dialogue, and strengthen mutual understanding between nations. He stressed that dialogue and cooperation must take precedence over confrontation and violence.
Hon. Speaker also underscored the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean to the Maldives and the wider region. Describing the ocean as a shared lifeline supporting millions of people through trade, fisheries, tourism, and other livelihoods, he reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to working with regional and international partners to strengthen maritime cooperation and security while protecting the shared marine environment for future generations.
Addressing the link between environmental security and peace, Speaker Abdul Raheem highlighted the Maldives’ particular vulnerability to climate change, and noted that rising sea levels, coral reef degradation, marine pollution, and climate-induced disasters pose serious threats to livelihoods and national resilience and may contribute to instability. He stressed that protecting the marine environment is therefore not only an environmental responsibility, but also an investment in peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Speaking on the importance of shared prosperity, Hon. Speaker emphasized the need for solidarity and greater recognition of the interconnectedness of nations. He noted that prosperity should not be measured by economic growth alone, but must also encompass quality education, innovation, equal opportunities, and the empowerment of young people.
On the continuing conflict in the Middle East, Speaker Abdul Raheem expressed deep concern over the profound human suffering and called on all parties to embrace dialogue, support an immediate ceasefire, and work towards a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace grounded in international law and the legitimate aspirations of all peoples.
Concluding his address, Speaker Abdul Raheem called on parliamentary leaders to reaffirm their shared commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and international cooperation. He stressed the need to choose dialogue over division, law over force, and cooperation over conflict, and called for collective efforts to build a future defined by peace, stability, and shared prosperity.