President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has urged all individuals and parties involved in politics to put forth national interest above all else. The president made the remarks delivering a televised national address on the occasion of the 55th Independence Day of the Maldives.
Delivering the address, President Solih reminded certain fundamental principles must be agreed despite differences in ideologies, adding politicising every trivial thing to create divisions and strife within community is a vice. The president noted the constitution inaugurated a multi-party democracy in the Maldives, in which individuals holding diverse views are welcomed to express their opinions and contribute to nation-building. He stated the administration will always value the input of those who disagree politically and welcomed their assistance in the pursuit of broad national interests.
President Solih noted the Maldives won its independence through peaceful means and foresight. Therefore, the president emphasised the national policy priorities and political direction must ensure continued independence is maintained through peaceful means. He said open engagement with the international community and concerted global effort will be required to resolve pressing international issues, including recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing climate change.
Reflecting on how far the Maldives has come through its reliance on two industries it developed through its own efforts, tourism and pole-and-line fishing, President Solih remarked that now is an opportune time to begin diversifying the country's economy. The president noted the participation of women and youth in the endeavour will be crucial. He also spoke on the importance of speedily expanding human resource capacity of the Maldives, so that the country can overcome the economic challenges COVID-19 has forced the citizens to endure.
Speaking further, President Solih noted Islam is the main source of national pride of the Maldives. The president stressed the pillars upon which the Maldives built its national identity, mother tongue, heritage, and the way of life have all been established through Islamic influences. He further highlighted the importance of always preserving Islam and the other essential pillars that comprise the national identity of the Maldives.
President Solih stated the direction of the country's development compass should be clear to all after 55 years of independence. He reminded every Maldivian citizen they have a collective and individual responsibility to do their utmost to help for the country to develop and prosper.
Furthermore, President Solih participated in the ceremonial flag hoisting ceremony held at the Republic Square to mark the independence of the Maldives.