President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the transformative changes that do not compromise the country’s independence and sovereignty, and benefit the national treasury must be embraced.
Speaking at the official ceremony held on the occasion of Victory Day, the president said lessons must be drawn from the past, and stressed the importance of realising the aspirations our ancestors had for the country.
The president said history shows that behind all attempts to undermine the country’s independence were Maldivians driven by a desire for power. Those who sacrificed their lives for their country did so as they did not wish for the country to be enslaved, he said, adding that the outcome of loyalty to the nation is always blessed.
The president said that in modern times, a country can have a say in its own affairs and defend their religion and ways by attaining economic independence. The country must be freed from debt dependency, he noted, similar to how ancestors liberated the country from foreign domination.
The president further said the country’s interests must be prioritised to bring about the development and prosperity that the people desire, rather than watching other countries advance.
Emphasising that every citizen has the right to development and progress, the president said this would enhance the nation’s dignity and standing. He said this was the aspiration of every citizen who wished the country well.
The president stressed that development must not come at the expense of the country’s fundamental principles. These include the Maldives remaining a 100 percent Muslim nation, as well as preserving its national identity, sovereignty and complete independence. He assured that every decision he made would aim to protect and strengthen the Maldivian nation, and ensure the prosperity and security of the Maldives.