Representing the Maldives on the international stage, Ambassador Geela Ali delivered a statement on behalf of Foreign Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel during the 119th Council of Ministers session of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), currently underway in Brussels.
Held from May 23 to 25, the high-level meeting brings together ministers and senior diplomats from across OACPS member states to discuss strategic priorities ranging from institutional reform to sustainable development and trade.
Addressing the Council on Friday morning, Ambassador Geela reaffirmed the Maldives’ support for the organization’s reform agenda spearheaded by newly appointed Secretary-General Moussa Salef-Batraki. She noted that modernizing the Secretariat, expanding trade cooperation, and accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are priorities that align closely with the Maldives’ own development vision.
The Ambassador also underscored the strategic value of the longstanding OACPS-European Union partnership, calling it a vital platform for economic growth, technical cooperation, and climate resilience. She expressed confidence that continued collaboration would yield lasting benefits for all OACPS member states, including the Maldives.
“As a small island nation, we see immense potential in reinforcing multilateral cooperation through forums like OACPS,” said Ambassador Geela, emphasizing that collective action is key to navigating today’s global challenges.
The Maldives formally joined the OACPS as a full member on December 9, 2022, becoming part of a diverse coalition of 79 nations committed to inclusive development and south-south cooperation. The country has since worked closely with both OACPS members and the European Union to tackle issues such as climate change, equitable trade, and post-pandemic recovery.
The OACPS was established in 1975 under the Georgetown Agreement, with the mission of promoting sustainable development and greater integration into the global economy for its member states. The Maldives’ growing engagement with the organization reflects its ongoing efforts to amplify its voice on global platforms.
As the Brussels session continues, the Maldives’ participation signals its readiness to contribute to and benefit from a stronger, reformed OACPS, built on unity, shared values, and forward-looking partnerships.
