News Desk
Bridgetown, Barbados — The Deputy Speaker Hon. Ahmed Nazim, delivered a compelling address at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Conference in Barbados, reaffirming the Maldives’ deep commitment to the Commonwealth’s shared values of democracy, good governance, and collective action on global challenges.
Speaking on the theme “The Commonwealth: A Global Partner,” the Deputy Speaker described the Commonwealth as “a practical, powerful, and living partnership” that continues to unite diverse nations in pursuit of common goals.
“The Commonwealth has always been about connection — about nations of every size finding common purpose in democracy, fairness, and cooperation,” the Deputy Speaker said. “In a world that feels increasingly divided, that matters more than ever.”
A major focus of the speech was climate change — a defining issue for small island nations. The Deputy Speaker highlighted the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to build resilience and adapt to rising sea levels, noting that “for the Maldives, building resilience isn’t optional — it’s survival.”
Citing the leadership of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, the Deputy Speaker emphasized that the Maldives views climate action as inseparable from its broader development agenda. The Maldives has been an active voice in Commonwealth initiatives such as the Clean Ocean Alliance and the Climate Finance Access Hub, both of which have helped small states access critical resources and expertise.
“The Commonwealth has been our rock,” the Deputy Speaker said, adding that these programs “turn promises into action and make small states visible in global conversations.”
The speech also recognized the Commonwealth’s role in strengthening democracy across its member nations. The Deputy Speaker commended Commonwealth election observers, public service training, and youth and women’s empowerment programs for their tangible impact in the Maldives and beyond.
“These aren’t just programs on paper,” the Deputy Speaker Hon. Nazim noted. “They change lives. They build confidence. They help citizens believe that they have a voice in shaping their future.”
Reflecting on the Maldives’ long-standing relationship with the Commonwealth since the 1980s, the Deputy Speaker expressed pride in how the partnership has evolved. “It’s shaped our governance, empowered our youth and women, and strengthened the bond between our people and the wider world.”
The Maldives will continue to play an active role within the Commonwealth, including as co-chair of the Ministerial Meeting on Small States in 2026.
The Deputy Speaker closed by calling for renewed collaboration across the Commonwealth:
“Let’s make this partnership even more alive, more inclusive, and more responsive to the realities our citizens face. If we do that, the rewards — for every one of our nations — will keep multiplying.”
