President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated there are abundant economic benefits of protecting and preserving rich culture and heritage of Maldives.
Addressing the ceremony held to commemorate the centenary anniversary of Muleeaage, President Solih highlighted how culture and heritage play a vital role in attracting tourists and the economic benefits that come with it. The president noted travellers, especially millennials, consider countries with rich cultural and historical backgrounds when planning travel noting by protecting and preserving sites of cultural and historical significance, Maldives could attract more visitors, and in turn benefit the economy.
Furthermore, President Solih highlighted the importance the administration accorded to protecting such sites and noted the constitution of the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage is a testament to the fact. He noted the ratification of the Heritage Act, which ensures the documentation, preservation and protection of cultural heritage and underscored the role of the current generation to protect and preserve the culture and heritage for posterity and progeny.
Speaking further, President Solih recalled the historical significance of Muleeaage and highlighted the role it had played for the past century as the Presidential Palace, President's Office, Prime Minister's Office, House of Parliament, Supreme Court, Foreign Ministry and Home Ministry among many others.
At the function, President Solih was presented with a special plaque declaring the registration of Muleeaage as a hundred-year-old heritage site. The president also presented plaques to the staff who had served in Muleeaage for over 20 years and expressed his heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering duty and service.
President Solih was joined at the function held at Mulee'aage by Vice President Faisal Naseem, former President and current Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Nasheed and former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom.