Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Mohamed Asim has stated that all should be proud that Maldives has risen to the occasion and given impetus to the age-old saying, "size matters not".
Speaking at the opening session of the Ambassadorial Workshop on "Developing Sustainably Sharing Experiences, Seeking Solutions", Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Asim highlighted the journey that the Maldives has taken through its 52 years as an independent nation, and as a member of the United Nations. The Foreign Minister also noted that the Maldives has developed its industries such as tourism and fisheries without compromising the natural environment.
The Minister further highlighted the importance of representation for small states such as the Maldives, so that their unique and distinct experiences can be shared as common solutions for our shared, collective destiny. The Foreign Minister highlighted that one of the key reasons why the Maldives is campaigning for a seat on the UN Security Council for the term 2019-2020 is the country's belief that such experiences matter in the key decision-making body of the United Nations.
Maldives is hosting the Ambassadorial Level Workshop from November 10-13, 2017. The workshop will focus on sustainable practices of fisheries and tourism in the Maldives, share the country's experience in rapid economic growth through these two industries, while at the same time, protecting and preserving the marine eco-system. It will draw up possible lessons for other coastal states in promoting sustainable fisheries, and in developing and promoting sustainable tourism. Eight countries are represented in the workshop by their Permanent Representatives to the United Nations.