The United Nations Office in Maldives on Thursday held a special function to mark the 71st United Nations Day. Officials from the Foreign Ministry, and embassies of various countries in the Maldives attended the function, held at Hulhule’ Island Hotel.
Speaking at the function, the UN Resident Coordinator to the Maldives, Shoko Noda referred to various accomplishments the UN has gained as an entity to prevent poverty, famine, restore peace and assist the vulnerable people in different countries since its establishment 71 years ago. She spoke about the flourishing relation between the UN and the Maldives in different fields, especially the work to protect the environment and prevent adverse effects of climate change. She said the UN is glad to be working with the Maldives in its attempt to succeed in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Shoko also highlighted the work carried out by UN to empower women, youth, and establish equality.
Health Minister Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, who was the guest of honour at the event, highlighted that the Maldives has been in partnership with the UN for the past 51 years, thanking the organisation for its numerous contribution to the development of the country. He said the UN and its numerous bodies have been in the forefront of bringing gender equality, empowering youth and women, preventing and eliminating various diseases and assisting in the Maldives’ endeavour to prevent negative effects of climate change and preserve the environment. He thanked the organisation for its role in assisting the Maldives achieve the Millennium Development Goals, and said the government and authorities were looking forward to working with UN to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
In his message on the occasion, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon said that “this year’s observance of United Nations Day occurs at a time of transition for the world and for the United Nations.” “Humanity has entered the era of sustainability – with a global commitment to fulfil the great promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, he said, adding that “during the Organisation’s 71st years, we have 17 goals to propel us towards a better future for all on a healthy planet.”
UN Day marks the anniversary of the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. With the ratification of this founding document by the majority of its signatories, including the five permanent members of the Security Council, the United Nations officially came into being. 24 October has been celebrated as United Nations Day since 1948. This year's UN Day will be used to highlight concrete actions people can take to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).