President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated the support and goodwill of the international community is crucial for the efforts of the Maldives to recover from the economic impact of COVID-19.
Delivering his remarks at the virtual Independence Day Reception held for diplomats at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Solih acknowledged this year’s Independence Day fell during extraordinary times, with the world still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted the pandemic threatens to undo the socio-economic strides the Maldives has made since independence, adding it has forced the administration to make difficult decisions, including closing international borders for months despite the country’s heavy reliance on tourism.
President Solih expressed that early and comprehensive government interventions has enabled the Maldives to enter the recovery stage. The president stated the support and goodwill of the international community remains vital to the national resilience efforts of the Maldives. He stressed in particular that the Maldives needs visitors to reinvigorate the tourism industry, and highlighted the many precautions the country has implemented in its self-contained island-resorts to prioritise the safety of tourists.
Reiterating the promise he made in his inaugural address, the president pledged to keep working with the international community to solve global issues, including recovering from COVID-19 and solving climate change. He emphasised that while the Maldives cherishes its independence, the country equally values being a contributing member of the global community.
Ending his remarks, the president expressed his hope that all the dignitaries virtually present at the reception can be soon welcomed in the Maldives.