Parliament Speaker Abdul Raheem Abdulla has called on parliaments around the world to work together to address global challenges such as terrorism and cybercrime.
Speaking at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Speakers’ Conference in Islamabad on Tuesday, Abdul Raheem said peace and development were now inseparable.
“If one is lost, the other cannot be maintained,” he said.
“Parliaments must respond to challenges such as terrorism, maritime safety and security, and cybercrime with coordinated, immediate legal solutions.”
He added that the IPU was ready to take an active role in developing a roadmap for the Islamabad Declaration adopted at the conference.
Abdul Raheem also drew attention to humanitarian crises around the world, saying women and children were among the worst affected.
“These circumstances remind us of the harmful disregard for international law, justice and human dignity,” he said.
“For parliament speakers, it is a moral responsibility that must be addressed soon. Our duty is not just to legislate but to defend people’s lives and human dignity.”
He said the Maldives stood ready to work with Pakistan and other countries represented at the IPU conference to promote justice, peace and a brighter future.