Maldives and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have held productive discussions aiming to strengthen the mutual relations. The Minister of Family and Social Development Dr. Aishath Shiham, participated in the discussions, during her official visit to Indonesia, which took place from September 11-13. UNFPA is an organisation which provides financial assistance for activities related to the population.
During her visit, Minister Dr. Aishath Shiham held comprehensive discussions with UNFPA's Asia-Pacific Regional Director Mr. Pio Smith. The discussion focused on exploring opportunities for joint collaboration and avenues of mutual interest. The minister also expressed sincere appreciation for the support provided by the UNFPA.
Minister Dr. Aishath Shiham undertook the visit to India, to participate in the high-level panel discussion on "Reframing Ageing" at the 2024 Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Population Ageing. Speaking at the meeting, the minister shed light on the changes in the demographics of the Maldives, and its impact on sustainable development. The dialogue underscored the Maldives' commitment to transforming the challenges of an ageing population into opportunities for inclusive growth and long-term resilience. On the sidelines of the conference, she met with the Executive Secretary of Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) Armida Salsiah Alisjahbana, to discuss areas of mutual collaboration. The conference saw the participation of over 400 delegates from various countries.
Furthermore, Minister Dr. Aishath Shiham visited an elderly care facility of Indonesia, LLT Girang Melinggih. The facility organises monthly active ageing activities for seniors and supports the creation and sale of traditional handicrafts made by local older adults. LLT Girang helps seniors in Melinggih access social protection programs, healthcare services, home renovations, and assistive devices like wheelchairs, hearing aids, and walkers.