Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi has said that the role of women in the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) should be increased to pave way for more women to join the armed forces.
Speaking at the Passing out Parade of the 68th Basic Training Course, Minister Mariya said there are already women soldiers present in various positions in the MNDF. However, she said the number of women soldiers is still low, adding that the military needs to make planned efforts to change the situation in the future. Therefore, she urged more Maldivian women to join the army.
Furthermore, Minister Mariya said every country has an army to ensure its defense and security. She said the military of a country is not only strengthened by arms and equipment but by the camaraderie and close bond between the soldiers. She said the ranks draw strength from each other and an army is a cohesive unit. She said the military will determine what the individual will do, their role, and their position, adding that there should be nothing they cannot do, no place they cannot stay, and no post they cannot fill.
In conclusion, Minister Mariya said a soldier should always be trained and always keep their knowledge and skills fresh. She said their goal should be to serve the country and the citizens when needed. Therefore, she also said soldiers must always remain committed to military ethics and conduct and, in accordance with their oath, be ready to sacrifice body and soul in defense of the constitution, for the sake of the nation.