<p><strong>Independence Day 2024:</strong> India is marking its 78th Independence Day, and as part of the annual tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and gave his 11th consecutive address to the nation from the Red Fort on Thursday (August 15).</p>

<p>Congratulations are pouring in from around the world, with leaders congratulating&nbsp;the people of India and looking to strengthen diplomatic ties with the South Asian nation. Here are the world leaders who joined in India's 78th Independence Day celebrations by sending their best wishes.</p>

<h2><strong>1. Nepal: KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal</strong></h2>

<p>Nepali PM wrote on X, "Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Shri&nbsp;@narendramodi&nbsp;ji and the people of India on 78th Independence Day!&nbsp;May this day strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations. Looking forward to advancing Nepal-India relations. #IndependenceDayIndia"</p>

<h2>2. Maldives: President&nbsp;Mohamed Muizzu</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a>, Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, and the people of 🇮🇳. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the… <a href="https://t.co/HCtYMG0VLa">pic.twitter.com/HCtYMG0VLa</a></p>
— Dr Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu) <a href="https://twitter.com/MMuizzu/status/1823922349781213666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President&nbsp;@rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister&nbsp;@narendramodi, and the people of India. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the region. As we look to the future, I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen, driving mutual prosperity and shared goals,"&nbsp;Maldivian President&nbsp;Mohamed Muizzu wrote on X.</p>

<h2>3. Maldives:&nbsp;Maldivian Democratic Party President Abdullah Shahid</h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Happy Independence Day <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> 🇮🇳!<br />
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I wish Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a>, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion.<br />
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India has proved to be an “all weather” friend of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maldives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maldives</a>. Our first and… <a href="https://t.co/4UkkSS9G6h">pic.twitter.com/4UkkSS9G6h</a></p>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1823908114464432536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Happy Independence Day India! I wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi, EAM Dr S Jaishankar, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion. &nbsp;India has proved to be an “all-weather” friend of the Maldives. Our first and best responder for any crisis we have faced. An invaluable partner in our development journey. The people of Maldives continue to benefit from the generous development assistance and human resource development, and deeply cherish this relationship,"&nbsp;Former Foreign Minsiter of Maldives Abdullah Shahid&nbsp;wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>4. Bhutan: Prime Minister&nbsp;Tshering Tobgay</strong></h2>

<p>"Wishing the government and people of India a very happy Independence Day! May the special friendship between Bhutan and India grow ever stronger.&nbsp;@narendramodi @PMOIndia,"&nbsp;Tobgay wrote on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Thank you for the Independence Day wishes, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/tsheringtobgay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tsheringtobgay</a>. <a href="https://t.co/OvMI09Vwj1">https://t.co/OvMI09Vwj1</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1823961833725665772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>5. France: French&nbsp;President&nbsp;Emmanuel Macron</strong></h2>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I thank my good friend, President <a href="https://twitter.com/EmmanuelMacron?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EmmanuelMacron</a> for the wishes on our Independence Day. I too fondly recall not only his India visit but also our various interactions, which have added great strength to the India-France partnership. We will keep working together to further… <a href="https://t.co/mPLwNQRkOZ">https://t.co/mPLwNQRkOZ</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1823977886673469455?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Congratulations to the Indian people on your 78th Independence Day! I remember your warm welcome during my visit to India in January and look forward to working with my friend @NarendraModi on achieving the ambitious goals we have set for our strategic partnership," Macron wrote on X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Independence Day 2024: India is marking its 78th Independence Day, and as part of the annual tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and gave his 11th consecutive address to the nation from the Red Fort on Thursday (August 15).

Independence Day 2024: India is marking its 78th Independence Day, and as part of the annual tradition, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hoisted the national flag and gave his 11th consecutive address to the nation from the Red Fort on Thursday (August 15). Congratulations are pouring in from around the world, with leaders congratulating the people of India and looking to strengthen diplomatic ties with the South Asian nation. Here are the world leaders who joined in India's 78th Independence Day celebrations by sending their best wishes. 1. Nepal: KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister of Nepal Nepali PM wrote on X, "Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji and the people of India on 78th Independence Day! May this day strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations. Looking forward to advancing Nepal-India relations. #IndependenceDayIndia" 2. Maldives: President Mohamed Muizzu On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President @rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister @narendramodi, and the people of 🇮🇳. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the… pic.twitter.com/HCtYMG0VLa — Dr Mohamed Muizzu (@MMuizzu) August 15, 2024 × "On the occasion of India’s Independence Day, I extend heartfelt congratulations to President @rashtrapatibhvn, Prime Minister @narendramodi, and the people of India. Our enduring friendship, rooted in history, has evolved to foster prosperity and development in the Maldives and the region. As we look to the future, I am confident that our partnership will continue to strengthen, driving mutual prosperity and shared goals," Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu wrote on X. 3. Maldives: Maldivian Democratic Party President Abdullah Shahid Happy Independence Day #India 🇮🇳! I wish Prime Minister @narendramodi, EAM @DrSJaishankar, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion. India has proved to be an “all weather” friend of the #Maldives. Our first and… pic.twitter.com/4UkkSS9G6h — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) August 15, 2024 × "Happy Independence Day India! I wish Prime Minister Narendra Modi, EAM Dr S Jaishankar, the Government and the warm and friendly people of India best wishes and prosperity on this joyous occasion. India has proved to be an “all-weather” friend of the Maldives. Our first and best responder for any crisis we have faced. An invaluable partner in our development journey. The people of Maldives continue to benefit from the generous development assistance and human resource development, and deeply cherish this relationship," Former Foreign Minsiter of Maldives Abdullah Shahid wrote on X. 4. Bhutan: Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay "Wishing the government and people of India a very happy Independence Day! May the special friendship between Bhutan and India grow ever stronger. @narendramodi @PMOIndia," Tobgay wrote on X. Thank you for the Independence Day wishes, PM @tsheringtobgay. https://t.co/OvMI09Vwj1 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2024 × 5. France: French President Emmanuel Macron I thank my good friend, President @EmmanuelMacron for the wishes on our Independence Day. I too fondly recall not only his India visit but also our various interactions, which have added great strength to the India-France partnership. We will keep working together to further… https://t.co/mPLwNQRkOZ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 15, 2024 × "Congratulations to the Indian people on your 78th Independence Day! I remember your warm welcome during my visit to India in January and look forward to working with my friend @NarendraModi on achieving the ambitious goals we have set for our strategic partnership," Macron wrote on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Independence Day 2024: World leaders send I-day wishes to PM Modi

The newly-elected leader of the Maldivian Democratic Party and former Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has publicly refuted claims made by President Muizzu regarding the presence of Indian Military personnel in Maldives.

Maldives: Ex-Minister debunks Indian military presence claims, casts doubt on government’s honesty

This election will be about India and China jostling for influence in the Indian Ocean nation that lies on a key trading route.

Maldives polls: Why are the stakes high for both India and China?

Maldives votes in runoff elections on September 30 after neither candidate could reach the 50% vote mark in the first round. Incumbent President Ibrahim Solih holds a district pro-India stand. His primary opponent Mohammed Muizzi is against the India tilt and has a strong pro-China leaning. This election will be about India and China jostling for influence in the Indian Ocean nation that lies on a key trading route.

Maldives - an India vs China election battleground

The Maldives Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid is in New Delhi for a two-day visit and he met his counterpart Dr S. Jaishankar.

Maldives Foreign Minister, Abdulla Shahid in India to WION

The Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid is in Delhi for a two-day visit where he met his counterpart Dr S Jaishankar yesterday and the two sides signed 9 agreements on project development under India’s grant assistance. Watch to know more about his visit and what it entails in this exclusive interview with Abdulla Shahid.

Maldives' Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid in India

Maldives part of India’s Neighbourhood 1st policy

Maldives foreign minister Abdullah Shahid has met his Indian counterpart Dr Jaishankar in New Delhi. They held discussions on bilateral regional and international issues of mutual interest the Maldive's top Diplomat is on a two-day visit to India.

Maldives FM Abdullah Shahid on a two-day India visit

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<p>Calling for reforms, the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid has said that the United Nations should reflect the geopolitical realities. The over 75-year-old body is the most represented organisation of the world with 193 member countries that collectively form the main body of the United Nations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking to <strong><em>WION's</em></strong> diplomatic correspondent, <strong>Sidhant Sibal</strong>, the UNGA President said, "I have urged member states, appealed to member states, if you want the United Nations to be regarded as credible, we will have to make sure that we become relevant to the current geopolitical realities of the day. We have to change the composition of the security council and the way that it functions,"&nbsp;</p>

<p>UNGA President is on a two-day India visit, during which he had several meetings that included External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and foreign secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra. In the interview, he listed out his achievement under the "Presidency of hope" and how the Russia-Ukraine conflict was a challenge.</p>

<p>Abdulla Shahid is also the Maldives' foreign minister. In response to WION, he called the ties between New Delhi and Malé "outstanding". Dismissing anti-India propaganda in his country by some elements, Abdulla said, "It's a program of propaganda being pushed by a group of people who have nothing to offer to the people of Maldives,"</p>

<p><strong>WION:&nbsp;If you can list out the key highlights of your Presidency?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong> I came promising a presidency of hope, I came at a time when the world was reeling under death and despair, devastation during COVID-19. My theme of hope was based on five rays of hope: the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuilding sustainably, respecting the rights of all, responding to the needs of the planet, and reforming the United Nations. Because I believe recovering from COVID-19 is to be our first and foremost effort. There is no other way than to recover from COVID-19 pandemic and achieve vaccine equity and vaccinate the world.</p>

<p>I convened a high-level meeting on February 19 this year, to bring the countries together and to galvanise the international community on vaccine equity in addition to rebuilding sustainably. Achieving SDGs have been a challenge even before COVID-19. For small countries, LDCs etc the meagre resources that were allocated to achieve these SDGs had to be channelled to confront the pandemic. So, we were completely off track in many parts of the world to achieve the SDGs. We have to use this as an opportunity to restart and make this into recovery so that by 2030 we can achieve as much as possible.</p>

<p>Respecting the rights of all, human rights have to be part of all, everything we do, and I wanted to bring this important theme, one of the fundamentals of the foundation of the UN, to the centre so that we are able to build around it. Never let human rights be relegated to the periphery.</p>

<p>Responding to the needs of the planet we see what is happening to the planet. We see how badly the environment is degraded; climate change is impacting countries. We are seeing the glaciers melting, we see the deserts expanding, the forest fires raging, we see storms intensifying, and the sea level rising. We need to unite in front of this and have a conversation. In July I convened, "moment for nature". World leaders take a moment for nature and think about how we can save this planet for future generations.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Presidency was challenging amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. How did that impact your Presidency, a divided UN:&nbsp;West versus Russia and China?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;Well, it was a challenging time, because the permanent five members are involved in a conflict. What we were able to prove at the UN was the system for multilateralism does work, because at the UN when UNSC fails to address an international peace and security issue persistently. Then the UNSC or membership have the right to bring the issue to the general assembly. The general assembly has no veto, and every country has one vote.</p>

<p>That was brought under United for peace resolution, and once a special emergency session is convened, the powers of the security council are transferred to the general assembly, including the power of enforcement of chapter 7 which is what we are in today. I am presiding over a special UN session that has been convened at the request of the security council after 40 years. We have seen the world unite with 143 countries, supporting the resolution that was submitted. We saw the international community speak clearly and loudly.</p>

<p>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/reflective-of-larger-national-attitude-indian-mission-gives-an-earful-to-chinese-envoy-to-colombo-510768">'Reflective of larger national attitude', Indian mission gives an earful to Chinese envoy to Colombo</a></p>

<p><strong>WION: But it also shows a very defunct UN. What initiative you took to reform?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;The process of the reforms of the security council has been going on for the last 14 years. The intergovernmental negotiations are continuing. This year, for the first time, we were able to do more meetings. We were able to bring more consensus on the very diverse issue that was on the table. We have to be mindful that we are talking about 193 countries coming together, including the five permanent members. It will continue to be a long process. However, I have urged member states and appealed to member states that if you want the United Nations to be regarded as credible, we will have to make sure that we become relevant to the current geopolitical realities of the day. We have to change the composition of the security council and the way that it functions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: Personally, for you what were the key focus areas, youth and women empowerment are issues you have been close to and raising it strongly.</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;Gender equality is one of my priorities. I make sure, in my office at the general assembly that the office of the president is gender balanced, including at a very senior level in the cabinet. Also, I made a pledge that I will not attend any panel that is not gender balanced, a pledge that I have kept. I have also made sure to meet women and girls during all my travels to understand their views and understand the challenges and convey a message to them that together we can achieve.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If business as usual is maintained, it will take 138 years for gender parity to be achieved. That is unacceptable, we have made positive interventions. We have to make sure that we properly talk about it and make complete, positive interventions so that it will be changed. Having more women at the table and in the decision-making in politics, and the economy is essential. I convened a high-level meeting on violence against women in politics because of violence against women in politics. We need to address this issue.</p>

<p>We have to make the workplace friendly and welcoming for women coworkers. I remember in 2019 in the UN when Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand came to the general assembly, she had to leave the general assembly every two hours, because she was carrying a baby and had to feed. We do not have a facility for that. I have been successful in establishing a lactation room at the United Nations. Currently, we have nine rooms under the guardianship of New Zealand and El Salvador, one of them next to the general assembly hall itself. We have to mainstream, not only establish, and talk about it so it is established in other parts of the world as well.</p>

<p>The question of highlighting the fact that women do not have equal opportunity has to be highlighted time and time again. We are talking about the pandemic so example, we saw death and devastation but one topic we do not talk about is violence against women and vulnerable groups. It is an issue neither you nor I can avoid because at the end of the day it's our mothers, our sisters and our children.</p>

<p>Read more<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/argentina-shows-interest-in-indias-tejas-fighter-aircraft-wants-to-trade-in-local-currencies-too-510664">:&nbsp;Argentina shows interest in India's Tejas fighter aircraft; wants to trade in local currencies too</a></p>

<p><strong>WION: What brings you here in Delhi? You had a number of key meetings.</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;India was the first country to support my presidency when my candidature was declared. India played a very important role in backing my presidency. The support India has given in the form of my Chef de cabinet, for example, a distinguished diplomat from India, Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu. He has been outstanding and working with member states. I wanted to convey and express my gratitude as my presidency comes to an end, for the cooperation and commitment they have given to the presidency of hope. More importantly to mention how appreciative the UN is of the outstanding commitment that India has for multilateralism. India is a member of the security council and continues to highlight many of these cherished principles at the UN. I also met the UN country team here who are doing outstanding work in reaching out to the people of India, in assisting the development work.</p>

<p><strong>WION: How do you see the geopolitical flashpoints, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, an aggressive China leading to Taiwan strait crisis. How do you see the development, what will you suggest to the global community?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;Our total commitment is to multilateralism, peaceful settlement of disputes and cherishing the United Nations Charter because the whole point of creating this organisation, the UN, is to bring these countries together to avoid conflict, avoid war and find a peaceful settlement of disputes. So, wherever you are, whatever disputes you have, you have to be committed to bringing that dispute to the United Nations, peaceful resolutions through the multilateral legal system.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION Now asking you questions in your capacity as the foreign minister of Maldives. How do you see India Maldives ties? We recently saw the visit of President</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:&nbsp;</strong>Outstanding, that is how I will describe the relationship between the Maldives and India. Since President Solih took office on November 17, 2018, and Prime Minister Modi was himself present, the relationship has skyrocketed. The Maldives was the first country Prime Minister Modi visited in his second term. They have met so many times and the cooperation and understanding, at the leadership level, is excellent and that sets the agenda for us, who have to deal with it. Taking into consideration the number of pacts that were signed, ongoing bilateral projects, and the number of visits that have taken place, one word to describe the relationship is outstanding.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: We have seen elements taking part or supporting anti-India propaganda including by former President Yameen. How do you see it, and do you think that can be curtailed?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;It's a program of propaganda being pushed by a group of people who have nothing to offer to the people of Maldives. No economic agenda, no development agenda, or social agenda. So they have to come up with something. So, they are attacking our best friend and closest ally. It is just like shooting down on our own foot.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: We are witnessing a heating up of the Indian ocean with increased Chinese presence. We saw a Chinese spy vessel docking in Sri Lanka. How does it impact Maldives?</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;For the Maldives, it's very simple. A stable Maldives is essential for stability and prosperity in the Indian ocean. A stable and prosperous Indian ocean is essential for prosperity in the Maldives. So will do everything and we will work with everyone to maintain stability, peace, and prosperity in the Indian ocean.</p>

<p><strong>WION: Questions remain over why the President of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapakse first came to the Maldives.</strong></p>

<p><strong>Abdulla Shahid:</strong>&nbsp;Obviously, a question that you will have to ask President Rajapakse as to why he chose the Maldives.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Calling for reforms, the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid has said that the United Nations should reflect the geopolitical realities.

Calling for reforms, the President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Abdulla Shahid has said that the United Nations should reflect the geopolitical realities. The over 75-year-old body is the most represented organisation of the world with 193 member countries that collectively form the main body of the United Nations. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, the UNGA President said, "I have urged member states, appealed to member states, if you want the United Nations to be regarded as credible, we will have to make sure that we become relevant to the current geopolitical realities of the day. We have to change the composition of the security council and the way that it functions," UNGA President is on a two-day India visit, during which he had several meetings that included External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and foreign secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra. In the interview, he listed out his achievement under the "Presidency of hope" and how the Russia-Ukraine conflict was a challenge. Abdulla Shahid is also the Maldives' foreign minister. In response to WION, he called the ties between New Delhi and Malé "outstanding". Dismissing anti-India propaganda in his country by some elements, Abdulla said, "It's a program of propaganda being pushed by a group of people who have nothing to offer to the people of Maldives," WION: If you can list out the key highlights of your Presidency? Abdulla Shahid: I came promising a presidency of hope, I came at a time when the world was reeling under death and despair, devastation during COVID-19. My theme of hope was based on five rays of hope: the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, rebuilding sustainably, respecting the rights of all, responding to the needs of the planet, and reforming the United Nations. Because I believe recovering from COVID-19 is to be our first and foremost effort. There is no other way than to recover from COVID-19 pandemic and achieve vaccine equity and vaccinate the world. I convened a high-level meeting on February 19 this year, to bring the countries together and to galvanise the international community on vaccine equity in addition to rebuilding sustainably. Achieving SDGs have been a challenge even before COVID-19. For small countries, LDCs etc the meagre resources that were allocated to achieve these SDGs had to be channelled to confront the pandemic. So, we were completely off track in many parts of the world to achieve the SDGs. We have to use this as an opportunity to restart and make this into recovery so that by 2030 we can achieve as much as possible. Respecting the rights of all, human rights have to be part of all, everything we do, and I wanted to bring this important theme, one of the fundamentals of the foundation of the UN, to the centre so that we are able to build around it. Never let human rights be relegated to the periphery. Responding to the needs of the planet we see what is happening to the planet. We see how badly the environment is degraded; climate change is impacting countries. We are seeing the glaciers melting, we see the deserts expanding, the forest fires raging, we see storms intensifying, and the sea level rising. We need to unite in front of this and have a conversation. In July I convened, "moment for nature". World leaders take a moment for nature and think about how we can save this planet for future generations. WION: Presidency was challenging amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. How did that impact your Presidency, a divided UN: West versus Russia and China? Abdulla Shahid: Well, it was a challenging time, because the permanent five members are involved in a conflict. What we were able to prove at the UN was the system for multilateralism does work, because at the UN when UNSC fails to address an international peace and security issue persistently. Then the UNSC or membership have the right to bring the issue to the general assembly. The general assembly has no veto, and every country has one vote. That was brought under United for peace resolution, and once a special emergency session is convened, the powers of the security council are transferred to the general assembly, including the power of enforcement of chapter 7 which is what we are in today. I am presiding over a special UN session that has been convened at the request of the security council after 40 years. We have seen the world unite with 143 countries, supporting the resolution that was submitted. We saw the international community speak clearly and loudly. Read more: 'Reflective of larger national attitude', Indian mission gives an earful to Chinese envoy to Colombo WION: But it also shows a very defunct UN. What initiative you took to reform? Abdulla Shahid: The process of the reforms of the security council has been going on for the last 14 years. The intergovernmental negotiations are continuing. This year, for the first time, we were able to do more meetings. We were able to bring more consensus on the very diverse issue that was on the table. We have to be mindful that we are talking about 193 countries coming together, including the five permanent members. It will continue to be a long process. However, I have urged member states and appealed to member states that if you want the United Nations to be regarded as credible, we will have to make sure that we become relevant to the current geopolitical realities of the day. We have to change the composition of the security council and the way that it functions. WION: Personally, for you what were the key focus areas, youth and women empowerment are issues you have been close to and raising it strongly. Abdulla Shahid: Gender equality is one of my priorities. I make sure, in my office at the general assembly that the office of the president is gender balanced, including at a very senior level in the cabinet. Also, I made a pledge that I will not attend any panel that is not gender balanced, a pledge that I have kept. I have also made sure to meet women and girls during all my travels to understand their views and understand the challenges and convey a message to them that together we can achieve. If business as usual is maintained, it will take 138 years for gender parity to be achieved. That is unacceptable, we have made positive interventions. We have to make sure that we properly talk about it and make complete, positive interventions so that it will be changed. Having more women at the table and in the decision-making in politics, and the economy is essential. I convened a high-level meeting on violence against women in politics because of violence against women in politics. We need to address this issue. We have to make the workplace friendly and welcoming for women coworkers. I remember in 2019 in the UN when Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern of New Zealand came to the general assembly, she had to leave the general assembly every two hours, because she was carrying a baby and had to feed. We do not have a facility for that. I have been successful in establishing a lactation room at the United Nations. Currently, we have nine rooms under the guardianship of New Zealand and El Salvador, one of them next to the general assembly hall itself. We have to mainstream, not only establish, and talk about it so it is established in other parts of the world as well. The question of highlighting the fact that women do not have equal opportunity has to be highlighted time and time again. We are talking about the pandemic so example, we saw death and devastation but one topic we do not talk about is violence against women and vulnerable groups. It is an issue neither you nor I can avoid because at the end of the day it's our mothers, our sisters and our children. Read more: Argentina shows interest in India's Tejas fighter aircraft; wants to trade in local currencies too WION: What brings you here in Delhi? You had a number of key meetings. Abdulla Shahid: India was the first country to support my presidency when my candidature was declared. India played a very important role in backing my presidency. The support India has given in the form of my Chef de cabinet, for example, a distinguished diplomat from India, Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu. He has been outstanding and working with member states. I wanted to convey and express my gratitude as my presidency comes to an end, for the cooperation and commitment they have given to the presidency of hope. More importantly to mention how appreciative the UN is of the outstanding commitment that India has for multilateralism. India is a member of the security council and continues to highlight many of these cherished principles at the UN. I also met the UN country team here who are doing outstanding work in reaching out to the people of India, in assisting the development work. WION: How do you see the geopolitical flashpoints, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, an aggressive China leading to Taiwan strait crisis. How do you see the development, what will you suggest to the global community? Abdulla Shahid: Our total commitment is to multilateralism, peaceful settlement of disputes and cherishing the United Nations Charter because the whole point of creating this organisation, the UN, is to bring these countries together to avoid conflict, avoid war and find a peaceful settlement of disputes. So, wherever you are, whatever disputes you have, you have to be committed to bringing that dispute to the United Nations, peaceful resolutions through the multilateral legal system. WION Now asking you questions in your capacity as the foreign minister of Maldives. How do you see India Maldives ties? We recently saw the visit of President Abdulla Shahid: Outstanding, that is how I will describe the relationship between the Maldives and India. Since President Solih took office on November 17, 2018, and Prime Minister Modi was himself present, the relationship has skyrocketed. The Maldives was the first country Prime Minister Modi visited in his second term. They have met so many times and the cooperation and understanding, at the leadership level, is excellent and that sets the agenda for us, who have to deal with it. Taking into consideration the number of pacts that were signed, ongoing bilateral projects, and the number of visits that have taken place, one word to describe the relationship is outstanding. WION: We have seen elements taking part or supporting anti-India propaganda including by former President Yameen. How do you see it, and do you think that can be curtailed? Abdulla Shahid: It's a program of propaganda being pushed by a group of people who have nothing to offer to the people of Maldives. No economic agenda, no development agenda, or social agenda. So they have to come up with something. So, they are attacking our best friend and closest ally. It is just like shooting down on our own foot. WION: We are witnessing a heating up of the Indian ocean with increased Chinese presence. We saw a Chinese spy vessel docking in Sri Lanka. How does it impact Maldives? Abdulla Shahid: For the Maldives, it's very simple. A stable Maldives is essential for stability and prosperity in the Indian ocean. A stable and prosperous Indian ocean is essential for prosperity in the Maldives. So will do everything and we will work with everyone to maintain stability, peace, and prosperity in the Indian ocean. WION: Questions remain over why the President of Sri Lanka, Gotabaya Rajapakse first came to the Maldives. Abdulla Shahid: Obviously, a question that you will have to ask President Rajapakse as to why he chose the Maldives. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Calling for reforms, UNGA President Abdulla Shahid says UN should reflect geopolitical realities

In his first-ever interview since his massive victory for the post of President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly or UNGA, Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid has listed dealing with the COVID crisis, UN reforms among his 5 key priorities. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from New York, Abdulla Shahid speaking on the COVID crisis said, "We need to make sure we provide vaccines to all". Shahid received 143 votes at the general assembly during Monday's votes, far higher than the 96 votes that are required with his one-year tenure all set to begin from September of this year.

WION Exclusive: First interview of President-elect of 76th session of UNGA Abdulla Shahid

<p>Abdulla Shahid, the President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA)&nbsp;76th session,&nbsp; has announced a programme&nbsp;to train the diplomats and civil servants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs).</p>

<p>The first of its kind programme aims to give opportunity to young diplomats,&nbsp;previously only given to countries that could “second” diplomats to the&nbsp;Office of the President of the General Assembly (PGA).</p>

<p>The announcement was made by Abdulla Shahid on International Youth Day that was celebrated on 12th August.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a tweet he said, "I am pleased to announce that, as #UNGA76 President, I intend to establish the “PGA Youth Fellowship Programme”.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I am a firm believer in the importance of youth participation, especially in shaping decisions that affect their tomorrow.<br />
<br />
On this <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InternationalYouthDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InternationalYouthDay</a> I am pleased to announce that, as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UNGA76?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UNGA76</a> President, I intend to establish the “PGA Youth Fellowship Programme”.</p>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1425958122015924228?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Giving details he said, "The Youth Fellowship intends to develop the next generation diplomats/civil servants from LDC/LLDC/SIDS" who will be brought to New York for a period of one year to give them "exposure to the UN system and making them strong advocates for multilateralism".&nbsp;</p>

<p>LLDCS are Landlocked Developing Countries while SIDS are Small Islands Developing States.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The Youth Fellowship intends to develop the next generation diplomats/civil servants from LDC/LLDC/SIDS, by bringing them to New York for a year and giving them exposure to the UN system, and making them strong advocates for multilateralism.</p>
— Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1425958302685478919?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the number of young diplomats who will be chosen is yet to be determined, the PGA-elect has requested for political and financial support from member states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Shahid is the first Maldivian national to hold the office of President of UNGA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the UNGA elections earlier this year, he got a whopping 143 votes in the 193-member body.&nbsp;97 votes are the threshold for winning the elections.</p>

<p>The tenure of the post is one year and is a prestigious one due to authority over the working of the General Assembly.</p>


Abdulla Shahid, the President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA) 76th session, has announced a programme to train the diplomats and civil servants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs).

Abdulla Shahid, the President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly's (UNGA) 76th session, has announced a programme to train the diplomats and civil servants from Least Developed Countries (LDCs). The first of its kind programme aims to give opportunity to young diplomats, previously only given to countries that could “second” diplomats to the Office of the President of the General Assembly (PGA). The announcement was made by Abdulla Shahid on International Youth Day that was celebrated on 12th August. In a tweet he said, "I am pleased to announce that, as #UNGA76 President, I intend to establish the “PGA Youth Fellowship Programme”. I am a firm believer in the importance of youth participation, especially in shaping decisions that affect their tomorrow. On this #InternationalYouthDay I am pleased to announce that, as #UNGA76 President, I intend to establish the “PGA Youth Fellowship Programme”. — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) August 12, 2021 × Giving details he said, "The Youth Fellowship intends to develop the next generation diplomats/civil servants from LDC/LLDC/SIDS" who will be brought to New York for a period of one year to give them "exposure to the UN system and making them strong advocates for multilateralism". LLDCS are Landlocked Developing Countries while SIDS are Small Islands Developing States. The Youth Fellowship intends to develop the next generation diplomats/civil servants from LDC/LLDC/SIDS, by bringing them to New York for a year and giving them exposure to the UN system, and making them strong advocates for multilateralism. — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) August 12, 2021 × While the number of young diplomats who will be chosen is yet to be determined, the PGA-elect has requested for political and financial support from member states. Shahid is the first Maldivian national to hold the office of President of UNGA. During the UNGA elections earlier this year, he got a whopping 143 votes in the 193-member body. 97 votes are the threshold for winning the elections. The tenure of the post is one year and is a prestigious one due to authority over the working of the General Assembly.

UNGA president-elect Abdulla Shahid announces programme to train diplomats from least developed countries

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="3">The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and President-Elect of the 76th UN General Assembly, Abdullah Shahid, on Friday commended India's generosity for ensuring COVID-19 vaccine supply to 95 countries and providing essential medicines to 150 countries around the world.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="4">Shahid was speaking at the 4th Sapru House Lecture on the challenges faced by Maldives democracy.</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="5">Abdullah also informed us that the "world economy shrank by 4.3 per cent in 2020, while many countries fell into debt. Global poverty has also increased, pushing almost 114 million people to lose their jobs."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="6">Meanwhile, Indian multilateralist Manjeev Puri said, "We are pleased to see a South-Asian chairing the UN General Assembly."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="7">The Indian Council for World Affairs (ICWA) Director-General TCA Raghavan also expressed that "It is an honour for the Indian Council of World Affairs to have Abdullah Shahid deliver the Sapru House Lecture today."</p>

<p data-changed="false" data-paragraphid="8">Shahid Abdullah was addressing the 38th Sapru House Lecture on the COVID pandemic and the need for reformed multilateralism. The Sapru House Lecture is the flagship public lecture series dedicated to the founders of ICWA.</p>


The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and President-Elect of the 76th UN General Assembly, Abdullah Shahid, on Friday commended India's generosity for ensuring COVID-19 vaccine supply to 95 countries and providing essential medicines to 150 countries around the world.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives and President-Elect of the 76th UN General Assembly, Abdullah Shahid, on Friday commended India's generosity for ensuring COVID-19 vaccine supply to 95 countries and providing essential medicines to 150 countries around the world. Shahid was speaking at the 4th Sapru House Lecture on the challenges faced by Maldives democracy. Abdullah also informed us that the "world economy shrank by 4.3 per cent in 2020, while many countries fell into debt. Global poverty has also increased, pushing almost 114 million people to lose their jobs." Meanwhile, Indian multilateralist Manjeev Puri said, "We are pleased to see a South-Asian chairing the UN General Assembly." The Indian Council for World Affairs (ICWA) Director-General TCA Raghavan also expressed that "It is an honour for the Indian Council of World Affairs to have Abdullah Shahid deliver the Sapru House Lecture today." Shahid Abdullah was addressing the 38th Sapru House Lecture on the COVID pandemic and the need for reformed multilateralism. The Sapru House Lecture is the flagship public lecture series dedicated to the founders of ICWA.

Abdullah Shahid praises India for supplying COVID-19 vaccines, essential medicines to world

President-elect of the United Nations General Assembly and the current Maldives Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid has publicly supported India’s bid for a seat at the United Nations Security Council as a permanent member.

UNGA President-elect Abdullah Shahid supports India’s bid to the UNSC

The President-elect of the seventy-sixth session of the United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid has said that under his leadership he will "make sure the members move forward on this process". Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Abdulla who is on a Delhi visit pointed out that his "presidency of hope" will have a focus on covid crisis, rebuilding sustainably, reviving the economic devastation, UNSC reforms, climate change as the main issues.

"Will take UNSC reform forward," says UNGA President-elect Abdulla Shahid

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