3 March 2014, Geneva; In the statement made at the High Level Segment of the 25th Regular Session of the Human Rights Council, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives. Her Excellency Ms. Dunya Maumoon called on the international partners for constructive engagement with the Maldives in its democratic transition.
Minister Dunya Maumoon, in her statement, assured the Council of the continued commitment of the Government to uphold the universal human rights values. She briefed the Council on the political developments, and the efforts to ensure a free and fair environment for the people in exercising their political rights as citizens. She noted the commitment of the people and the Government of Maldives for promoting Islam as a religion of peace and compassion whilst combatting terrorism.
Speaking on international issues and challenges faced by people around the world, the Minister reiterated the commitment of Maldives to stand with the Palestinians in restoring their inalienable rights. She also noted the need for urgent action in protecting the rights of the people of the Central African Republic and the addressing the plight of the Syrian people.
The twenty-fifth Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council opened today, at 0900 hrs at the United Nations Office in Geneva. The High-Level Segment of the Session will continue until 6 March 2014.
During this visit, Minister Dunya Maumoon will be meeting with UN Secretary General Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, High Commissioner for Human Rights Ms. Navi Pillay, Secretary General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Mr. Iyad Ameen Madani, and other bilateral and multilateral partners to discuss issues of mutual interest.
At this session, the Maldives delegation will continue to be actively engaged on a number of human rights issues under different themes, such as the rights of the child, human rights and environment, freedom of expression and opinion. The Maldives will also be engaged in negotiations relating to Syria and Palestine, and also work with other OIC member states on negotiations on freedom of religion or belief.
In November 2013, Maldives was re-elected for a second term as a member of the Council. The membership will end in December 2016. In 2013, Maldives also held the Vice-Presidency (Asian Group) of the Council.
The Maldives is represented by the Permanent Mission of Maldives to the United Nations Office in Geneva, led by HE. Ms. Iruthisham Adam, Permanent Representative / Ambassador of Maldives to the United Nations Office in Geneva.
ENDS.