Vice President, Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef, concluded his official visit to Samoa today,, where he represented the Maldives at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

The Vice President was accompanied by a senior government delegation, including Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Abdulla Rafiu, Minister of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation, and Dr. Iruthisham Adam, Maldives High Commissioner to the UK.

Throughout his visit, the Vice President actively participated in several CHOGM and side events, discussing critical issues affecting the Maldives and engaging in key global dialogues.

He underlined the significance of the Commonwealth’s role in securing climate finance, especially for small island developing states (SIDS) like the Maldives at the CHOGM Climate Breakfast. 

His participation also included contributions to the Island Leaders Round Table at the Commonwealth Business Forum and the CEO-Leader’s Event hosted by the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI).

He outlined a bold vision for transforming the island nation into a developed country by 2040, proposing three areas of collaboration for the Commonwealth business community to play a key role in that journey.

The Vice President affirmed the Maldives’ commitment to promoting good governance and strengthening democratic values during his address at the CHOGM Executive Session.

He emphasized that democracy, human rights, and respect for diversity are essential to societal growth, underscoring the Maldives’ dedication to a strong democratic foundation, demonstrated through four cycles of successful national elections.

The Vice President extended an invitation from President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to King Charles, Head of the Commonwealth, to visit the Maldives during a dinner hosted by the King.

The Vice President also held a courtesy meeting with the Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon. Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa.

He took part in the Heads of Government Retreat at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) as well.

The Government remains dedicated to strengthening international partnerships and advancing sustainable development goals through active global engagement.

Held once every two years, CHOGM serves as a vital forum for Commonwealth leaders to collaborate on pressing global challenges, including economic resilience, environmental sustainability, and security, with a shared commitment to creating a sustainable future for all member states.