President calls upon the armed forces to be steadfast in taking civic and security responsibility

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, has called upon Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) to be steadfast in taking civic and security responsibilities which are covered in the duties of the armed-forces and expressed assurance for them to be fully acquainted with the military etiquettes. The president made the statement during the oath taking ceremony of the 64th Basic Training Programme of MNDF.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Solih stated even if an individual serves the military for a brief period of time, the person will remember the values of being a soldier for life and the past 127 years of the long military history of armed forces ensures Maldivian soldiers will never be traitors. Speaking in this regard, he emphasised on the importance of a strong armed force in ensuring the independence and sovereignty of the country.

However, President Solih stated the most important purpose of any soldier should not necessarily be focused with fighting or winning wars and it would ultimately give more pleasure to serve the army through securing peace and harmony in the country. Moreover, the president stated the Maldivian armed force is one of the main reasons Maldives is able to peacefully co-exist with the rest of the world.

President Solih also commended on the invaluable services provided by the armed forces in maintaining internal peace in Maldives. Speaking in this regard, the president also underscored MNDF is one of the first institutes to always be there to help the Maldivians in times of crisis and expressed heartfelt gratitude for services rendered to the public.

Moreover, speaking at the ceremony President Solih shed light on the fact the administration is working on improving the welfare options available to the families of MNDF officials and stated the administration recognises, just like civilians, MNDF personnel also struggle with attaining affordable housing. Therefore, he stated the administration is working on speeding up the progress of the SIFCO flat project which is especially dedicated to the armed-force personnel.

Moreover, the president shed light on the work carried out by the administration in further seeking training opportunities from friendly countries for the armed force personnel to ensure that they are trained, sharp and fit soldiers.

Furthermore, President Solih stated the MNDF personnel should be exemplary figures to the public in upholding the laws and regulations of the country.