President Dr Mohamed Waheed has extended greetings and good wishes to the people of the Maldives on the auspicious occasion of the Hijri New Year.
In a message to the nation, the President said that the Hijri New Year symbolises the historic journey of the Noble Prophet from the Holy City of Mecca to Medina and that the Prophet’s migration teaches us the virtues of unity, solidarity, sacrifice and fraternity. He highlighted that this important event of Islamic history has been celebrated over the centuries as a great victory for Islam, and that it provided unparalleled examples of brotherhood in our religion.
The President also said that the New Year was a time to set aside our political differences and strengthen our bonds of unity and fraternity.
In his message, the President also noted that this was also an important period in our nation’s history, as the country was preparing for presidential election that is to be held on November 9.
He added that on this auspicious occasion our patriotic duties and adherence to Islamic values democratic principles must take precedence over everything else and that it was our duty to work together and realign our focus on national peace and stability.
The President then prayed that the year 1435 would be a year of progress and prosperity for Maldives and its people, and for peace to prevail over us and other Islamic communities.
The President also sent New Year greetings to the leaders of Islamic countries and international Islamic organisations.