Speaker of the People’s Majlis, Hon. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, addressed the 4th Conference of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Parliamentary Network held today in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on the sidelines of the 150th Assembly of the Inter-parliamentary Union (IPU).
Addressing the topic of the conference, “Commemorating 70 years of the bandung spirit: the role of parliaments in upholding the bandung principles,” Speaker Abdul Raheem reiterated the Maldives’ steadfast dedication to the Bandung Principles, calling for renewed parliamentary action to uphold the values of sovereignty, non-interference, and international cooperation. Speaker Abdul Raheem also underscored that the Bandung Principles remain crucial in addressing today’s global challenges, by utilizing non-interference, peaceful dispute resolution, and cooperation in trade and culture.
Highlighting the vulnerability of small island states, the Speaker made an urgent call for global cooperation on climate change, noting that it poses a direct and growing threat to the Maldives. He also urged NAM member states to strengthen their commitment to environmental justice, particularly for the nations most at risk.
The Speaker also emphasized the Maldives Parliament’s progress in promoting inclusive development through legislation such as the Social Protection Act and the Decentralization Act, which have empowered communities and advanced equity. Parliamentary committees, including the National Development and Heritage Committee and the Human Rights and Gender Committee play a vital role in oversight to ensure alignment with national policies.
In closing, the Speaker called for NAM members to unite in defending peace, sovereignty, and justice.