President attends function to mark 121st Anniversary of MNDF

President Dr Mohamed Waheed attended a function held to mark the 121st anniversary of Maldives National Defence Force. The function was held on Wednesday evening at Kalhuthukkalaa Koshi.

Speaking at the function, President Waheed urged the armed forces to make new commitments to overcome the challenges posed by the most difficult phase in the democratic consolidation process, which the Maldives was currently undergoing. He said it should be a commitment to remain steadfast on Islamic principles, a commitment to be a united force, a commitment to be the most well-trained, courageous and vigilant people in the country, and a commitment to put forward national security and interest above everything else. Continuing in this regard, the President said if the armed forces lacked those commitments, the country might face unforeseeable damages.

He said the defence forces were the last shield of defence for every sovereign nation and that if that shield fails, the country would fall into suppression and lose its national identity.

He added that the defence forces should be trusted by the people and empowered through that trust.

In his speech, the President said as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, it was his duty to strengthen the Forces. In this regard, he said human resource development was most needed for the strengthening of MNDF, and that the Military Qualification Framework that was launched at today’s function, would enable the creation of a generation of educated personnel in the MNDF.

Highlighting the importance of introducing new activities to promote education and science within the MNDF, the President announced that the Ministry of Defence and National Security was working on introducing a new scholarship scheme under the title Chief of Defence Force Leadership Scheme.

Noting that the country was undergoing many economic challenges, President Waheed said the government was providing training and welfare services to MNDF within government means.

The President also announced four major policies, planned for the next five years, to develop the armed forces of the country.

President concluded his speech by urging the MNDF to be fully prepared for the challenges towards the independence and sovereignty of the country during the upcoming presidential elections.

At today’s function, President Waheed launched the MNDF Military Qualification Framework. He also presented certificates and commemorative plaques to different units of MNDF for their services.