President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has urged the international community and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) to unite in supporting justice, dignity, and peace for the Palestinian people, during his address at the SCO Plus Meeting in Tianjin, China.

In his statement, President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives’ unwavering support for Palestine, urging collective action to end decades of occupation and to secure the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination. He underscored that an independent and sovereign Palestinian state must be established based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Reflecting on the Maldives’ own history, the President noted that the country celebrated 60 years of independence and UN membership this year, adding that it remains firmly committed to peace, dialogue, and diplomacy. He expressed deep concern over the suffering of Palestinians and described Israel’s ongoing actions as a violation of international law and a grave assault on human rights.

The Maldives has consistently advocated for the Palestinian cause on international platforms. On 15 August, thousands gathered at Malé’s Maafannu Stadium in a nationwide rally organised by the International Aid Campaign, calling for an end to the Gaza blockade.

President Dr Muizzu also condemned Israel’s recently announced “Vision of Greater Israel” plan, warning that it risks escalating tensions and worsening the humanitarian crisis. He further welcomed the adoption of the New York Declaration on Palestine, endorsed by more than 130 countries, describing it as a strong demonstration of international solidarity and support for a two-state solution.

Since the escalation of Israel’s military campaign on 7 October 2023, over 60,000 Palestinians have been killed, including thousands of women and children, with aid agencies continuing to warn of a deepening humanitarian catastrophe.