Minister of Gender, Family and Social Services Aishath Mohamed Didi has participated in the Asia Pacific International Meeting on the Fourth Review and Appraisal of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Aging held in Bangkok, Thailand from June 29 to July 1, 2022.
During the meeting, participants discussed the Madrid International Plan of Action on Aging 2002, as well as the challenges they faced. Discussions also took place about changes in the aging population, challenges, and the long-term development of Asia and the Pacific.
At the meeting, Minister Aishath Mohamed Didi stated that we would be able to learn from these three days of constructive discussions and panel discussions, as well as study the progress and challenges encountered during the plan’s implementation.
Furthermore, Minister stated that the plan should be prioritized and that funds should be allocated for national development strategies, plans, and action plans. Coordination of efforts among key stakeholders is critical for achieving these goals. Furthermore, establishing and strengthening national monitoring mechanisms for the International Plan of Action for the Care of Older People is an important step toward analyzing the plan’s achievements and challenges, as well as the path forward.
Public health, medical development susceptibility, and socioeconomic developments have all benefited. Nonetheless, ongoing efforts should be made to provide long-term social security treatment. She also emphasized the importance of considering the impact of new issues such as climate change and pandemics on the elderly and their families.
State Minister Fazna Shakir noted that the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) of the Maldives will have a holistic impact on the needs of other groups in providing services, with special attention to the elderly, persons with disabilities, and those most vulnerable to achieving social and economic equality. She noted that this administration has a comprehensive approach.
Speaking further, State Minister Fazna Shakir said that it gave us great pleasure to share experiences and learn the best practices of other countries, and she was confident that this platform will pave the way for further improving existing knowledge and adhering to our national and international agendas on this important issue. The Government of Maldives reaffirms its commitment to accelerating the implementation of the Madrid International Plan of Action on Ageing and Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
During the visit, Minister Aishath Mohamed Didi met with The Secretary General of the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, Datuk Dr. Mazia Binti Che Yusuf and exchanged views on working together to address issues related to the ageing population of the two countries.
Minister Aishath Mohamed Didi also met with The Founding Director and Chairwoman of The Tsao Foundation of Singapore, Dr. Mary Ann Tsao. Discussions were held on areas of mutual interest on ageing issues.
Senior officials from Asian countries were present at the meeting.
5 July 2022