Statement by His Excellency Mohamed Naseer, Principal Secretary to the President on Foreign Relations, President's Office, at the High-Level Plenary Meeting to Commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the World Programme of Action for Youth
25 September 2025, New York
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ
Madam President,
All protocols observed.
Three decades ago, we declared: “Youth Matter.”
That their voices should be heard,
Their dreams realized, and
Their futures secured.
Yet, thirty years later, the promise of 1995 remains unfulfilled.
The challenges facing youth today are more complex and uncertain.
Conflicts. Climate crises, widening inequalities, technological shifts, and mental health struggles demand new solutions.
What has not changed is the boundless potential of youth to lead the charge for a better world.
Last year, we adopted the Pact for the Future.
It is an overarching framework that shows the future as a horizon of opportunity, where youth can claim their place and help shape our common path.
The Pact affirms that youth inclusion is a proven driver of progress.
To realize this, intergenerational collaboration is essential.
When the energy of the young and the experience of the old move in concert, the results are transformative.
In the Maldives, we are focusing on three fronts:
First, sustainable employment.
The Maldives is scaling up initiatives such as the National Apprentice Programme, vocational trainings, and the Community Upskilling Program to equip youth with skills.
We are also diversifying the economy to boost job creation.
Second, access to better healthcare and overall well-being.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s Government has launched the Youth Wellness Lounge for youth-friendly services and introduced the National Mental Health Strategic Action Plan to reduce stigma and strengthen support.
In 2024, the Government banned vape products, and from November this year, a generational ban on tobacco will take effect—decisive steps to protect youth health.
Third, space for creativity, including digital innovation.
The Maldives is investing in cutting-edge infrastructure, creativity hubs, and better access to finance.
Let today be a call to unite across generations.
Renew our commitment to place youth at the heart of progress.
Build a world that is youth-led, youth-driven, and youth-delivered—where they thrive with dignity, purpose, and peace.
Thank you.
