President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom states that he believes that the Maldivian youth population is the most valuable treasure in carrying the nation forward. The President made the statement while addressing the attendees at the inauguration of Y18 Sports Fiesta organised by the Progressive Party of Maldives.
Speaking at the ceremony held at the National Art Gallery, President Yameen noted that this sports festival will enable the platform for Maldivian youth to prove the strength, friendship, peacefulness, and social coexistence. Furthermore, the President stated that the aim of this sports festival is creating peace and harmony within the society. He also urged all the participants to uphold the purpose of this festival.
It is noted that Y18 Sports Fiesta is the biggest sports festival to be held in the Maldives. Almost half of the Maldivian population will partake in the festival, open to sports teams from all around the country.
In his speech President Yameen further stated that most of the development projects conducted in the country are funded by state budget. The President said prior to his administration, development of the country was dependent on foreign investments.
President Yameen said although there are major ventures like the bridge project which is funded by foreign investors, the government spends majority of its budget on developing health and education sectors as well as sports and youth development. Highlighting that the airport development project is one of the biggest infrastructure development projects in the country, which costs USD 1 billion, the President said that government is spending USD 300 million from the state budget for the project.