Dunya: Small states have a fundamental role in international arena

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dunya Maumoon has said that Maldives, although a small state, plays an important role in international issues such as climate change, promotion and protection of human rights, and security of small states.

Dunya made this remark while speaking at a reception held by the Embassy of Maldives in Japan to mark the Golden Jubilee of Independence of the Maldives, on Thursday, 27 August 2015.

Highlighting the achievements of Maldives’ journey of independence, she said, “Not only did we prevail in this test, but also we have proved that small states do have a fundamental role to play in the international arena.”

The reception was attended by members of the Japan-Maldives Parliamentary Friendship League, members of the National Diet of Japan, senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, senior officials of the Embassy of Maldives in Japan, and Maldivians living in Japan.

Dunya is in Japan on the invitation of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, to attend the World Assembly of Women 2015.

At the assembly, she will participate in the panel discussion on Girls’ Education.

She will also call on Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and meet with Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida and senior officials of the government, as part of her ongoing visit to Japan.