NEW YORK — President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, met with UN Secretary-General António Guterres yesterday, reaffirming the Maldives’ commitment to being an active player in the UN system, with a special focus on issues affecting Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
In the meeting, Muizzu underscored the economic pressures facing the island nation, laying out a vision for fiscal reform aimed at reducing national debt and stabilizing public finances. “We are working on a fiscal reform agenda to bring our fiscal conditions to a sustainable level,” he noted, pointing to the need for continued support from bilateral and multilateral partners.
The Secretary-General praised the Maldives’ efforts, particularly in the realm of climate change adaptation. Guterres reiterated his commitment to supporting the Maldives in addressing the ongoing environmental and economic challenges. He highlighted the Maldives’ leadership in confronting global issues, especially those disproportionately affecting vulnerable states.
The meeting concluded with Muizzu expressing his gratitude for the UN’s support under Guterres’ leadership, commending the organization’s role in providing a platform for all member nations to voice their concerns on the global stage.