Australia

Maldives Condemns Bondi Beach Attack, Expresses Solidarity With Australia

The Maldives government condemned the attack at Bondi Beach in Australia, describing it as a cowardly and heinous act. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended condolences to victims' families and wished the injured recovery. The government reaffirmed commitment to combating terrorism. Australian authorities termed the mass shooting a terrorist act motivated by hatred against the Jewish community, with 16 killed and 43 wounded.

First Lady of Maldives Welcomes Mrs. Darrilyn Dawson for Courtesy Visit

First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed welcomed Mrs. Darrilyn Dawson, spouse of Western Australia Governor Chris Dawson, at the Official Residence of the President, Mulee’aage, on Tuesday. They discussed education sector development in both Maldives and Western Australia, including historical evolution, opportunities for children and girls, and inclusive education. They also addressed the growing number of Maldivian students pursuing higher education in Australia and Australia Awards scholarships. Mrs. Dawson praised the First Lady's contributions to healthcare. The meeting concluded with optimism for continued collaboration.

Australia to Assist Maldives With 20-Year National Development Plan

The Maldives and Australia signed a Letter of Exchange Agreement on 3 October 2024 for technical assistance to formulate a 20-year National Development Plan. Australia committed AUD 900,000 (MVR 9.4 million) under the UNDP Integrated Governance Project. President Mohamed Muizzu said the plan will be implemented next year with full public participation and legal protection. Consultations will be held across all islands.

Meral Ayn Latheef and Aishath Ulya Shaig Set New National Records

Maldivian swimmers Meral Ayn Latheef and Aishath Ulya Shaig set new national swimming records. Latheef broke her own 100-metre butterfly record (01:13.94) at the Rushmoor Royals Summer L2 Short Course Open Meet 2024 in Aldershot Garrison, Hampshire, UK, and set a new 200-metre medley record (02:45.14). Shaig broke the 50-metre freestyle record (00:28.81) at the Breakers Big Splash June 2024 in Perth, Australia, and also claimed the 50-metre butterfly record (00:31.76).

Maldives, Australia Discuss Climate Change Mitigation and Financial Support for SIDS

Maldives Foreign Minister Moosa Zameer and Australia's Ambassador for Climate Change Kristin Tilley met on 24 March 2024 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss climate change challenges facing Small Island Developing States (SIDS) like the Maldives. Zameer outlined President Mohamed Muizzu's environmental policies, including a shift to 33% renewable energy and planting five million trees. He stressed the need for joint efforts to improve SIDS' access to climate financing from international institutions. The talks also aimed to deepen bilateral relations, particularly in tourism and people-to-people ties. SIDS are disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing only 1% of global CO2 emissions. According to the UN, SIDS received only US$1.5 billion of the US$100 billion in pledged climate finance in 2019.

Australian Universities Defy Foreign Minister’s Plea, Collaborate With Iran Despite Human Rights Concerns

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong wrote to over 30 Australian universities urging them to temporarily halt collaborations with Iranian institutions due to human rights concerns following the death of Mahsa Amini. However, The Guardian reported that over 20 published papers show ongoing collaborations, including in sensitive areas like AI and biotechnology. Critics including Daniel Roth of United Against Nuclear Iran warned of risks, while academics like Toby Walsh highlighted ethical concerns.

PG Discusses Technical Cooperation With US, Australian Ambassadors to Improve Criminal Justice System

Maldives Emphasises Climate Action, Downplays Security Concerns at India-Led Security Conference in Australia

At the 7th Indian Ocean Conference in Perth, Australia (Feb 9-10, 2024), the Maldives emphasized climate action over security concerns. State Minister Sheryna Abdul Samad highlighted the ocean's existential importance for island nations. The conference discussed strategic rivalries, especially India-China, with Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong criticizing China's military expansion and research vessel operations in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka's President noted shrinking maneuverability. China defended its vessels as peaceful and compliant with UNCLOS. The Maldives downplayed security issues, focusing on environmental preservation.

Maldives’ Foreign Policy Seeks Respect for Sovereignty: Minister Zameer

Minister of Foreign Affairs Moosa Zameer stated that the foreign policy of President Muizzu's administration is centered on securing respect for Maldives' independence and sovereignty. Speaking at the Golden Jubilee of diplomatic relations between Maldives and Australia on 25 January 2024, Zameer emphasized the importance of mutually beneficial partnerships and strengthening ties with Australia. He noted 50 years of friendship based on mutual respect and trust, and highlighted Australia's support through scholarships under the Australian Awards programme. The event was also attended by Australian High Commissioner David Jessup. Zameer affirmed commitment to further strengthen bonds and continue close engagement for shared successes.

Supreme Court Overturns Convictions of “Australia’s Worst Mother”

The New South Wales Supreme Court overturned the convictions of Kathleen Folbigg, known as 'Australia's worst mother,' who was accused of killing her four children. The court cited unreliable evidence, after Folbigg spent 20 years in prison. An inquiry earlier this year cast reasonable doubt, pointing to rare gene mutations that could have caused the deaths. Folbigg was sentenced to 40 years in prison in 2003, reduced to 30 on appeal. Chief Justice Andrew Bell stated a substantial body of evidence led to her exoneration. Folbigg criticized the legal system for ignoring proof of her innocence for years. Her legal team intends to seek compensation for wrongful imprisonment. The case drew global attention and sparked discussions about updating forensic practices.

Australians Reject Indigenous Referendum in Historic Vote