Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam has said that the government’s foreign policy is transparent and focused on protecting the interests and sovereignty of the Maldivian people.

Speaking to Mihaaru News on Monday, Minister Iruthisham said the policy was guided by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s Maldives First approach, which prioritizes national interests and equality in relations with other countries.

“Over the past two and a half years, you can see that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, as the country’s top diplomat, has maintained relations with many countries in a very wise and strong manner,” she said, adding that he had met numerous heads of state and played a leadership role internationally.

Minister Iruthisham said the Maldives’ foreign policy was more transparent than ever, emphasizing the importance of maintaining friendly relations with all countries without relying on any particular group or state.

She said the approach aimed to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty while promoting economic growth, attracting investment and securing benefits for Maldivians.

The minister said the government was also expanding the role of Maldivian embassies abroad to provide better services to Maldivians living overseas and explore new business opportunities.

Minister Iruthisham said the Maldives pursued a proactive foreign policy, seeking to address international issues through dialogue rather than responding only after problems arose.

She said active engagement in international affairs was important to safeguarding the country’s independence and sovereignty, adding that the Maldives had secured several victories in elections at the United Nations.

The Minister highlighted the Maldives’ role in advocating for Palestinian rights at the UN General Assembly and the Security Council, including through co-sponsoring resolutions.

She said the country had also raised concerns over Israel’s actions through international legal processes, including proceedings at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Minister Iruthisham said President Muizzu had contacted leaders of Islamic countries in the region to advocate for the Maldives’ position on the closure of the Strait of Hormuz amid continuing unrest in the Middle East.

She said the government continued to favor diplomacy and dialogue in addressing regional tensions.

The minister also highlighted the importance of strengthening relations with South Asian countries.

She referred to President Muizzu’s Independence Day address, in which he called for stronger ties among South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) members and proposed holding a regional summit.

Minister Iruthisham said the Maldives was also seeking to establish diplomatic relations with several African countries.

She said meetings held and agreements signed during the 81st session of the UN General Assembly reflected the government’s efforts to expand its international partnerships.