Minister of Home Affairs Imran Abdulla has stated that the establishment of bilateral relations with other countries is a symbol of the Maldives' independence. He made the remark at the ceremony held to mark the 58th Independence Day of the Maldives.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Imran said that freedom is one of the highest characteristics of human nature and that individuals are willing to sacrifice their life for freedom. He also said that the joy of freedom can sometimes only be felt after it is lost and that the most misery and sorrow a human being can experience is when freedom is taken away.
As such, Minister Imran said that a human being cannot experience a greater form of misery than being a slave, whether it be to another person or another country. He noted that this is why human beings and communities have worked to free themselves from the oppression of others and why a small island nation such as the Maldives have always valued freedom.
Additionally, Minister Imran said that the current generation enjoys freedom today due to the courage and determination of their forefathers who stood up to foreign invaders that had tried to take away their independence. He highlighted the importance of continuously reviving their memories to remember their sacrifices.
Furthermore, Minister Imran stressed that it is the greatest responsibility of the current generation to maintain the freedom established by their forefathers. He said that it is their national duty to fulfill this responsibility, adding that the President and his administration is also fulfilling this responsibility wisely and thoughtfully.
Moreover, Minister Imran said that freedom is being lost due to the ways relations are being held between countries. He, however, said that cordial bilateral relations is a symbol of the country's independence and that these relationships will be maintained due to the hard work of those involved in the current foreign policy initiatives as well as the national security services.