The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs His Excellency Ahmed Khaleel participated today in the Ministerial Forum for Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, convened jointly by the Government of France and the European Union.

During this Forum, State Minister Khaleel delivered his remarks at the roundtable session held under the theme global challenges (health, climate, biodiversity, and oceans), and highlighted the unique challenges small island states such as the Maldives face due to the impacts of climate change. State Minister Khaleel further stressed on all countries to make stronger commitments to address climate change-related issues and to protect biodiversity and emphasized the need to adapt to flexible measures and to increase access for small islands states for the required funding related to adaptation and mitigation of climate change.

Moreover, State Minister Khaleel highlighted Maldives' dynamic relationship with the Indian Ocean and the need to continue expanding resources and strengthen regional and international partnerships, which will aid in building a more secure and prosperous Indian Ocean Region.

Co-Chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand Nanaia Mahuta and Executive Vice President of the European Commission for the Green Deal, Frans Timmermans, the roundtable was also attended by Foreign Ministers of Indo Pacific countries.

The Indo Pacific Ministerial Forum is the first of its kind held as part of the Programmes of the French Presidency of the Council of the European Union and provided an opportunity for Foreign Ministers, representatives, and heads of delegation from the countries of the Indo pacific region for dialogue and discussions.

The Forum focused on issues ranging from connectivity, security, and defense and global challenges such as climate, biodiversity, health, and oceans.