President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has highlighted the government’s commitment to a ‘Maldives First’ foreign policy, while also ensuring that the country’s development aligns with Islamic principles.
The President made the statement while addressing at a special ceremony held to mark the second anniversary of his government.
In his address, the President said his administration will continue to prioritise policies that benefit the nation. He said the Maldivian people want policies that bring maximum benefit to the country through foreign relations, and assured that the government is working in that direction.
The President further said that the current government has established close relations with numerous countries by establishing embassies in foreign countries and appointing non-resident ambassadors or resident ambassadors to 27 countries. This is the largest number of non-resident ambassadors appointed in the country’s history, he said. This will further strengthen bilateral relations with countries, and bring significant benefits, he asserted.
"This brings investments to the country. We have appointed our existing ambassadors as non-resident ambassadors to other countries like never before. The benefits of having a dedicated ambassador are multiplied many times over, it brings substantial growth,” he said.
The President also highlighted efforts to facilitate visa-free international travel for Maldivians to additional countries.
Emphasising the government’s commitment to strengthening relations with Islamic nations, the President said the government will give top priority to strengthening foreign relations with Islamic nations, particularly Arab countries. He added that close relations have been established with Saudi Arabia, leading to the Maldives’ inclusion in the Mecca Route Initiative.
Speaking on domestic initiatives, the President emphasised that the government is committed to ensuring that every action, across all sectors, aligns with Islamic principles. He said the government will work to carry out development projects, fulfil pledges, empower youth and build the economy in accordance with the principles and tenets of Islam.
“It is our responsibility to act in accordance with the tenets of Islam,” he said.
Highlighting the work being done in the Islamic sector, the President said that the development of endowment buildings across the Maldives has been contracted to different parties to facilitate the implementation of endowment projects. These projects will be used for religious and social purposes under the relevant policies, he said.
The President also announced that the government is working on constructing Islamic centres and mosques across the Maldives and spreading Quranic knowledge.
“The Holy Quran is an important priority for Muslims. I take pride and a pleasure in establishing buildings that will prioritise the Qur'an in every community,” the President said.
The President also announced ongoing work to install air conditioning in Male’ City mosques with a capacity of more than 800 people. At least five mosques will be air-conditioned by the month of Ramadan, he said.
Highlighting the National Quran Competition, which offers the largest prize money of any government-supported initiative, the President said winners in each category of the competition are provided the opportunity to study up to PhD. Its purpose is to encourage students to continue their education by obtaining high ranks in Qur'an recitation, he said.