Though Maldives did not vote, we were certain that Palestine would win- Dr. Nazeer

Deputy of the Ministry of Education, Dr. Abdullah Nazeer has stated that although Maldives due to unexpected circumstances was not able to participate in the vote taken by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on Monday to admit Palestine as a full member of the Paris-based agency, Maldivian government had the full certainty that Palestine would gain membership.

Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Dr. Nazeer said that he and Minister Shifa were not aware that UNESCO would call for a vote in the meeting. He said that he signed the sponsorship of the resolution on behalf of Maldives when he was informed of the resolution. He said that the delegates of Maldives did whatever they can to support the cause of the Palestine by supporting the resolution.

Dr. Nazeer said that Minister Shifa drafted her speech mentioning the support of Maldives for Palestinian brothers and sisters and sought the counsel of the Foreign ministry. He said that the Ministry applauded her initiative and guided her to debate on behalf of Palestine.

“Germany and Canada are among those countries who spoke against this resolution. The Canadian delegates met us and expressed concern that US has warned UNESCO of cutting of the funding if the resolution is passed. However Minister Shifa defended the resolution and said that the stance of Maldives regarding the issue is clear. She said that Maldives would to whatever it takes to support this cause,” he said.

Dr. Nazeer said that Minister Shifa was summoned for the committee meeting of the Peoples’ Majlis and that she tried not to cancel the meeting and also to participate in the vote however was not able to book a flight.