President Mohamed Nasheed and Madam Laila Ali this evening watched the Parade and the Route March held to celebrate the Independence Day.

Upon their arrival at Jumhooree Maidhaan, the President and the First Lady were greeted by Minister of Home Affairs Mohamed Shihab and his wife Ms Aminath Shimla.

The President was presented a Presidential Salute following which the brass band of the Maldives National Defence Force played the National Anthem. The Armed Forces Guard then trooped past the Presidential Stand.