In his weekly radio address, President Mohamed Nasheed spoke on developmental projects to be launched on Monday, which is the Independence Day of the Maldives.

The President revealed housing projects would begin in Thinadhoo and Kolamaafushi on Monday, while similar projects would be launched in four other islands including Kulhudhuffushi, Manadhoo, Naifaru and Feydhoo of Addu atoll soon.

He added that the government was “extremely pleased” that housing projects could start outside the capital.

Providing social housing is the remaining key pledge of the President’s government that has yet to see implementation work.

Speaking on other infrastructure projects that would start on Monday, the President said road project would begin in Kulhudhuffushi, while several harbour projects would also be started.

He added that road projects in Thinadhoo, Addu atoll, Fuahmulah and Laamu atoll would also start soon.

On the Independence Day programme in the capital, he said the new National Museum, Velaanaage complex, a new building for the Defence Ministry and a new building for the Police would be officially opened.

The President also discussed some of the historical aspects of the Independence Day.

The President paid tribute to President Nasir for his efforts to secure full independence for the country.

“We see, through documents and photos, the work done by Ibrahim Nasir and his officials in securing independence and revoking the protectorate treaty with the British,” said the President.

“We all must be grateful to them. They rendered an outstanding national service”.

The Maldives marks its Independence Day on 26 July in commemoration of its full independence from the British.

The Maldives was a British protectorate from 1887 to 25 July 1965. Maldives gained full independence on 26 July 1965 under the premiership of late Ibrahim Nasir Rannabandeyri Kilegefaanu.

Ibrahim Nasir later became the first President of the Second Republic from 1968 to 1978.