Foreign Minister Iruthisham Adam has called for stronger partnerships and measurable progress among Commonwealth member states, stressing that achieving the organization's goals is a shared responsibility.

Speaking while co-chairing the Commonwealth Ministerial Meeting on Small States in St. John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, Minister Iruthisham emphasized the need for clear objectives and effective mechanisms to assess progress.

Under the theme “Scaling Up Partnerships and Investment for Resilient Small States,” the meeting focused on strengthening cooperation with international financial institutions and the private sector to help small island nations overcome climate-related challenges and financial constraints.

Minister Iruthisham also highlighted the principles of the Maldives’ Maldives First foreign policy, stating that the country prioritizes relationships built on mutual respect for sovereignty and independence.

She underscored the importance of strengthening the representation of small states in international forums and revealed that the Maldives is seeking election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2028–2030 term and a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for 2033–2034.

Co-chaired by Minister Iruthisham and Antigua and Barbuda’s Foreign Minister, Chet Greene, the meeting serves as an important platform for Commonwealth member states to coordinate their positions ahead of the 28th Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, or CHOGM.