Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) Chairperson Fayyaz Ismail has criticised Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel for not attending the UN International Conference on the Peaceful Settlement of Palestine and the Two-State Solution.
In a post on X, Fayyaz said, "It is deeply regrettable and a shame" because Khaleel did not attend the conference.
"It is deeply regrettable and a shame that Minister Khaleel deemed it more urgent and important to attend a banquet rather than represent the Maldives at the highest level in this conference," he said.
Fayyaz was referring to the state banquet held on Monday night to honour Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Disanayaka, who is currently on a two-day state visit to the Maldives.
"This choice sends a concerning message about our nation's priority with regards to our support and solidarity for the Palestinian cause. The people of Maldives would wish to see President Muizzu or at least your [Minister Khaleel] presence in this conference," the opposition leader added.
But he said it was "heartening" because the Maldives was taking part in the "critically important conference" on the Palestine issue.
Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ali Naseer Mohamed is attending the conference in New York on behalf of the Maldives government.
