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President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has called for the reactivation of SAARC after nine years of inactivity, offering the Maldives as a neutral mediator to help member nations overcome differences and resume regional cooperation.
News Desk
President Mohamed Muizzu speaking in independence day ceremony - Photo: President Office
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has declared that the Maldives is prepared to step up as a mediator to help reactivate the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC).
Speaking at the official ceremony marking the 61st Independence Day of the Maldives, President Muizzu noted that the Maldives was a founding member of SAARC, a bloc that historically delivered substantial benefits to South Asia. However, he expressed concern that the regional organization has remained largely dormant over the past nine years.
Emphasizing that Maldivian foreign policy is rooted in dialogue, President Muizzu stressed that differences between member states must be resolved around the negotiating table for the collective benefit and peace of the region.
"We call on all parties with differences to set them aside and prioritize unity for the development and peace of this region," President Muizzu stated. "If it is difficult to take that step, the Maldives is ready to take the initiative and act as a mediator to advance these discussions. SAARC must become operational again."
Multilateralism
Beyond regional diplomacy, President Muizzu highlighted the Maldives' ongoing engagement in international forums. He praised the country's half-century history within the OIC and reaffirmed its active presence in SIDS advocacy, citing the Maldives' position on the frontlines of global climate vulnerability.
Reflecting on the Commonwealth, the President recalled that the Maldives was previously withdrawn from the group in an "abrupt manner" by a former administration. He reiterated that his government's strategy is to actively participate and assume a leading role within the Commonwealth moving forward.
